Friday, February 12, 2016
Pasión y Poder Jueves 2/11/16 #86
Chapter
86: Summer
and Smoke
Had
a few cocktails the other day with an old acquaintance and it
occurred to me that this story is taking on some elements of one of
his less successful plays. This needs a few martinis now because I'm
not sure where it could go from here. Until now I seemed to be
looking at one of Shakespeare's greatest hits being turned inside out
which means it would end with adult children mourning their parents.
On the other hand, it could become something that ends in a modern
stalemate. Not sure what my readers will say to either.
One
thing I can say is that today's communication capabilities and
changes in morality means that all bets are off.
–
D.D.
Arturo and
Nina visited Erick, whose bed was propped up to a lounge-chair angle.
It did not appear that he had suffered any brain damage, as his
memory was intact. The last thing he remembered was hearing
something about the police being outside his room. His parents told
him not to worry about that, that the important thing was to recover
his health. Nina tried to vilify Consuelo for upsetting him but
Arturo shut her down. Just as he had done so the detective knocked
but did not wait for anyone to tell he he could enter.
“I see
young Mr Montenegro has awakened,” he said.
“Yes,
he's awake. What do you want?” Arturo asked.
“I'm glad
he's better. We can continue the enquiry into the death of Monserrat
Moret.”
Nina
suddenly looked as though she had aged ten years, then she looked up.
Arturo maintained a steady gaze at the detective. Erick looked
away, then back at his mother.
Franco was
trying to keep himself in the clear with Gabriela.
“I didn't
tell you Caridad was my mother only because I just found out.”
“Oh,
Franco, please!”
“My love,
don't lose your trust in me. Look, I'm the victim here. You're
looking at me as though I'm the guilty party, but that's not true. I
only neglected to tell you as well.”
“Of
course not, Franco. By God. This is just too strange.”
“It's
just that it's too much to take in yet.”
“Yes, I
see. But you have to understand that it's not so easy for my aunt.
She left the house, Franco.”
“She has
to take care of herself and do what she has to do.”
“What are
you talking about?”
He started
to answer her but his cell rang.
“Forget
it.”
He answered
his phone. It was an informant – probably Angeles – telling him
that Erick had awakened from the coma. He thanked the informant and
ended the call.
“I'll
have to go and tell my godfather.”
He started
to leave, but Gabriela held him back.
“Look,
Franco, you're not talking to anybody. For our own good, we're going
to talk to Caridad.”
“Why?”
“To see
if what you've told me is true. It might be painful, but you've got
a lot of things to talk about with her, don't you? And I do, too.”
Franco had
his back to the wall. He was going to be in the driver's seat on
this deception, but he wasn't sure of how his mother would behave.
Gabriela was implacable, though, and despite his saying that he was
ashamed of his mother having been in prison, she would not change her
mind. This was bigger to her than whether Eladio and Julia's
marriage survived or not. She would not forgive him if he had no
intention of telling her the truth, especially since Caridad was
employed at both the foundation and at GLA. Franco then told her
another lie.
“Don't
you think I'd want my parents to be together, like other people one
loves?”
She didn't
look like she believed him.
“Do you
mean to arrest my son?”
“Besides,
he had nothing to do with the death of Monserrat.”
“I have
evidence against your son,” the detective said. The doctor walked
in on that sentence.
“Doctor,
this detective said he is going to take my son to jail and you
haven't said he's better yet,” Arturo said.
“That's
true,” the doctor said to the detective. “He's still in
observation. He has to stay here and remain calm. I'm asking you to
wait until he's improved, please.”
“I
understand. This will depend on Mr Montenegro and the statement made
against him. Excuse me, sir, ma'am.”
He left.
Arturo took the doctor aside.
“I can't
allow the police to bother my son. His health is in danger,” he
said.
“Don't
worry; I'm in charge of this.”
“Very
well, thank you.”
The doctor
left.
“Dad, you
can't let them take me to jail, please.”
Nina stared
at Arturo with a pleading expression. He looked back as though he
knew it was all an act. Then he looked at his son.
Julia tried
to eat something, but not because she wanted to. David came into the
breakfast nook. He wanted to make sure she was alright and was
concerned that his living with Regina bothered her.
“David,
no.”
“Mother,
I need you to tell me something. Does Arturo Montenegro have
anything to do with what's going on with you and my father?”
“Why do
you ask?”
“Because
Franco was here and he told me. He told me you and Regina's father
had something going on. So I'm asking.”
Julia
wasn't sure how to answer him.
Arturo was
pacing in the hospital waiting room when Augustin arrived.
“It's
good your son woke up.”
“The
police want to take him to prison,” Arturo said. He was agitated
and he also looked desperate. “And I can't permit that.”
“I told
you that for now there is no problem. When I see the statement I'll
see whether it's enough to arrest him.”
“That
doesn't matter. I'm going to do what's necessary so my son doesn't
go to prison. I'll do what I have to to see that this statement
disappears. Whatever it takes.”
Augustin
was speechless, a serious condition for a lawyer. It was as though
he didn't recognize his best friend.
“I want
to know where Franco heard that,” Julia said.
“It's not
important. What I want to know if it's true or not that you and
Regina's father had an affair. You didn't know this but when you
were in the hospital Franco saw him there you know what he heard him
say? That he loves you.”
“Look,
David, it's going to be hard work to talk to you – my son – about
this, but I'll try. What Arturo and I had many years ago was very
intense, then it ended. He married Susanna, Miguel's mother, because
she became pregnant when he and I were engaged.” She had
difficulty facing David for most of this. “We were about to get
married and when I found out about the pregnancy I broke my
engagement to him. Afterwards I married your father. Although it
went on many years I believed I still loved Arturo and thus didn't
give your father a chance. Do you understand?”
“This was
the decision you made before. And what about now?”
“No, no.”
“What do
you mean by whatever it takes?”
“Don't
you understand what I mean? I can't let him be locked up. You know
what that means to be locked up in prison? Humiliation, being
stripped.... he can't survive in prison. I have to do something to
save him. Do you understand?”
“I
understand you. But that doesn't take away that Erick committed a
crime.”
Arturo
grabbed his shoulders and looked him directly in the eyes. He looked
angry, then desperate, then pleading.
“My son
didn't do anything. It was an accident. We have to give him a
chance. And I will. With or without you I will.”
“You
don't get it. For years I lived as a foundling in this house. Think
about it. Every day thinking of what it would be like with my own
two parents. Not knowing who they were, Now, Eladio is my father.
Don't you believe I'd want him to recognize me? That the whole world
would know I'm his son?”
“My,
love, I understand you –”
“No. Not
just that. I'd also want for my parents to be together.”
“What?
I'm sorry, Franco, but that can't be. It hurts me to say this but I
have to tell you that I can't accept my uncle being with another
woman.”
“I
realize this isn't anything easy but don't judge me for wanting
that.”
“I don't
agree. You hid this from me when you knew that Caridad was your
mother, Franco.”
Franco was
truly losing his cool, although it wasn't easy to tell whether he was
losing his mind.
“I didn't
know! I didn't know she was my mother!” he shouted.
“You
know. You know. Therefore, we're going to her house to see her.
Let's go, please, and not waste time.”
He stopped
dead, realizing he had no choice.
“Let's
go.”
“Arturo.
We have to think of our duty. Calm down first.”
“We have
no time to lose,” Arturo said, deliberately.
“So
explain it to me. What are you talking about when you say 'whatever
is necessary'?”
“You know
what I'm referring to, damnit!” He looked on the point of a
breakdown. “You know what I'm referring to. I'm sorry. You know
what happened. It was an accident. It was an accident.” He
almost began to cry. “Maybe if I hadn't called him or distracted
him –”
Augustin
reached out and took his friend's shoulder. He summoned all his
patience.
“Look,
what we can look for is for Erick to be in the least pain possible.”
“Of
course.”
“At least
for now what we can do is make sure he isn't released until he's
perfectly healthy first. I'll take care of it. I'm going to talk to
his doctor.”
Arturo
nodded, knowing he could count on Augustin. Yet he looked and must
have felt helpless.
“Now I
know I don't love Arturo. He's only a memory I held onto from youth.
I was so confused because your father treated me badly, horribly.”
“Now that
you have deceived my father it looks like you have something going on
with Arturo Montenegro.”
“Ay, no,
no.” She covered her face and paced around. “I don't want a
relationship with anyone now, least of all with Arturo.”
“Are you
sure?”
“Yes.”
“Did you
ever think of how it would affect me if you were with Regina's
father?”
“Of
course I did. And you know why this can't be? Because despite
everything that was happening with your father I love him
profoundly.” She began to cry. “I love your father. Do you
understand me? Do you know how exhausted I am? The only thing I
want is to sleep.”
David
embraced his mother to comfort her as she cried.
“I'm
sorry. Go and rest. Use my room; I'll make it up for you.”
He sat down
and sighed, then wiped away his own tears.
Arturo was
still in shock when his cell rang. It was Humberto, asking whether
he had seen Julia. Arturo explained that he was at the hospital
because Erick had awakened. He assured Humberto that he loved Julia
but he needed to be with his son. He tried to end the call but
Humberto told him that he could find Julia with David and Regina.
Although he knew the young couple wouldn't like this he was willing
to face anything.
Elsewhere
in the hospital Nina was working on her older daughter.
“Consuelo
hates your brother. Do you know what she said when he woke up?
That's she's going to divorce him.”
“I only
told him what he already knew, Madam,” Consuelo said.
“But you
could have waited,” Nina said.
“Yes,
Consuelo. That wasn't the right moment,” Regina said.
“So what
is the right moment? When is a good moment to be talking about
divorce? First it was because of the investigation about Monserrat.
Now it's because he's in the hospital. When is the right moment?”
“I know
this isn't easy, but –”
Consuelo
looked at Regina.
“I don't
want to delay my divorce.”
“Of
course,” said Nina. “You want to run right into Miguel's arms.”
“No. I
want peace. I don't want more arguments, or more anguish. I want to
be happy, and I want to be calm.”
“Are you
trying to take advantage of his condition?”
Regina
rolled her eyes. She knew this could only get worse.
“Neither
have you given me any consideration. You've said you'd make my life
impossible.”
“Maybe
that's what you're making me do. If you weren't the mother of my
grandson I swear I'd do something to you.”
“If
you're threatening me you will never see us again in your life.”
“Consuelo,
just wait until Erick gets released. Now calm down.” Her gesture
indicated she was talking to both of them. “I believe Erick will
get better in time.”
“Except
that the police want to take him directly to jail.”
Regina
shook her head.
“That
will be horrible for my brother. I don't understand how in one
moment he could ruin his life.”
The two
enemies stared at each other.
Miguel was
at the police station. The same detective was telling him that
although there was no proof he still was the prime suspect. The
situation had remain unchanged over six months. He was not to leave
the city. Miguel explained that he wasn't going to. He asked
whether imprisonment was grounds for divorce and was told that it
was. “Your brother would be in prison for many years. Convenient
for you, isn't it? His wife would be alone –”
“Don't
misunderstand me. I just want to make sure that Erick can't hurt
her. I feel bad for my father because he will lose him, but Erick
being in prison is the only way Consuelo and her son will have
peace.”
A very
pregnant Marintia called Caridad to tell her that she had changed her
cell number. She didn't want Franco to find her. She couldn't
believe that Eladio had seen the photo she had send to Caridad's
phone.
“You
don't know how sorry I am that it happened that way. But it's better
this way, Marintia. Franco knows he has to take responsibility for
my grandchild.”
“I'm
going to see the doctor because I don't feel well. I had
contractions.”
“That
can't be. You have two more months to go. Do me a favor. Call me.
Tell me everything that happens at the doctor's office.”
“On one
condition. Don't give my new number to anyone, Caridad. Anyone.”
“Take
good care of yourself, please.”
She then
realized that Marintia had ended the call. She put the phone on the
table and went to pray to the Virgencita. A moment later Franco
knocked, then opened the door. After a perfunctory “Good evening”
he entered with Gabriela.
“Good
evening. Come in.”
“Caridad,
you were so close all this time. It's a pity I didn't see sooner
that you are Franco's mother.”
She was as
cold as ice. Caridad had never seen her that way before and she was
afraid.
Regina
hugged Erick, happy that he was awake and looking normal. Well,
insofar as a Neanderthal could pass for normal. Daniela came in and
hugged him. He was happy to see her. She kissed him and held his
hand as she fired her first bomb at Regina.
“I hope
now that our brother's awake you won't help Consuelo.”
Regina
looked suspicious. She had to have expected something like this.
“You've
been helping Consuelo?” Erick asked. “I don't see why you'd take
her side. And you're here, you hypocrite, telling me you love me.
You better leave.”
Regina got
up and looked at him.
“You
aren't going to change, are you?” She left. Daniela immediately
sat in the place Regina had vacated.
“Erick, I
want to tell you I'll always be on your side. I came to tell you I
asked Ashmore to be godfather.”
“Well
done. That suits me.”
“But
Consuelo said no. She wants Augustin.”
“Augustin?
Augustin only helps my father. He wants Consuelo to divorce me.”
“Really?
It's a good thing you're awake. I did what you want.”
“I can't
believe my son's born.”
“Oh, he's
beautiful. He looks like you.”
I suppose
being his sister made her blind in many ways.
“Really?”
He smiled, pleased with himself.
“Yes.”
“I don't
know what to feel. Until I have him near me I don't know what I'll
feel for him.”
Daniela got
the message.
Caridad
talked about how difficult it was for her to not be present at their
wedding. Franco proved himself to be a true son of Eladio. He lied
about how he learned that Caridad was his mother, saying that
Gabriela had told him. Caridad took the hint and said that she had
talked with Eladio about him telling Franco the truth. She said she
was relieved that Gabriela knew. Gabriela said she was deeply
confused only to see Caridad cry as she said she loved her son and
would always help him. Franco was givng her the evil eye during that
statement. She may have chosen not to notice.
“Caridad,”
Gabriela said. “Do you realize what this signifies to me?”
“I
understand perfectly that this is difficult for you,” Franco said.
“But imagine how hard it was to know that the mother who wanted to
love me as your aunt loves you was so close to us.”
Caridad
continued to cry. It was unclear whether she saw through her son or
not.
The
following morning Eladio woke up in the master bedroom. He had
fallen asleep in his business clothes. He felt the other side of the
bed and remembered that Julia had left the evening before. Humberto
knocked and requested permission to enter. Eladio told him to come
in, then sat up and rubbed his eyes. Humberto rolled in, telling him
he had spoken with Julia and that she was at David's apartment.
“Do you
want to see her?”
“No. I
want to give her time to think.”
“I
thought I'd stay here until you two get back together.”
“No. You
don't have to do that. I'll find a way to see her when it's
convenient.”
“Well, I
only want to be useful to you. When I tell you I'm on your side I
want to show you.”
Eladio
looked at him out of the corner of his eye.
Clara was
preparing breakfast when Consuelo got up. Unlike the previous
example, she was doing useful things and showing herself to be a true
friend. The doorbell rang and Consuelo opened it to the unpleasant
sight of Nina in her animal-print coat.
“Good
morning.” She walked in before being invited.
“Good
morning,” Consuelo said, not really wanting to deal with her.
“I've
come to see my grandson,” she said, striding past her. “And for
assurance that you're taking proper care of him I brought a nurse.
Come in.”
A uniformed
nurse walked in.
“Good
morning,” she said, barely looking at Consuelo.
“Good
morning,” she replied.
Nina smiled
to herself as the nurse walked past her. She turned toward Consuelo,
who understood exactly what the smile was about. It was a
declaration of war.
Caridad had
to lie to Eladio that morning in the office when he asked whether she
had located Marintia. She told him that Gabriela is under the
impression that Franco had just found out that she was his mother.
He told her that she had to maintain this lie and then ordered her to
continue looking for Marintia, gesturing for her to leave. As soon
as she was out of the office a delivery man arrived with a box.
“Special
delivery from Mr Montenegro,” he said.
“Thanks.”
He gestured to the round table. The delivery man put the box down
gently and left. Eladio took the card that was in the top flap and
opened the box. It was three bottles of champagne. He opened the
note. It read:
I'd give
you a bottle of champagne to improve your relationship with Julia.
Now I'm sending you a box to help you win her anew.
“Ay,
Arturo, Arturo,” he said, as he started to open one. “I have no
doubt that you took the worst pleasure in this.” He stopped
peeling the label and dropped the bottle upside down back into the
box. “If you wanted you, buy a better one.” He thought for a
moment. “I see what just happened.”
Julia was
feeling better. She thanked David for breakfast and got up. He
started to clear the table as she told him she was going to look at
apartments.
“You
don't have to. You can stay here as long as you want.”
“No. No,
sir, no. The healthiest thing is everyone having his own space.
Understand?”
He shook
his head.
“Lady
Stubborn. Listen. When you told me you aren't involved with Arturo
I want you to know I believe you.”
“Thanks.
It's important that you never doubt me.”
She touched
his face and they kissed goodbye. She left just before Regina came
out to the breakfast nook. She told him she slept very well because
of Julia's assurance that there was nothing between her and Arturo
because she wouldn't accept it. Neither would David. They kissed
and Regina left for the office. David told her he would be seeing
his father that day because he needed to.
Arturo was
reviewing a project when Eladio called his cell.
“Don't
even think about getting near Julia,” he said.
“Eladio,
it's always a pleasure to take your calls.”
“You may
think this is funny, but you know you can't play with me.”
“No. But
there's nothing you can do. You've lost Julia and if you're a good
rival you'll learn how to lose. You think so?” [Note: This
line sounded better in Spanish.]
“I get
what you said. Understand this: Julia loves me.”
“Oh, I
don't doubt it. Julia is a great lady. But think about who
destroyed that great love.”
“You
don't understand, do you? It was a misunderstanding. We'll get over
it. Besides, how can you say this when you deceived her first?”
“The
difference is that I was up-front with her. On the other hand you
kept a major secret for twenty-plus years right in front of her.”
Eladio
ended the call and dropped his cell on his desk. He could not deny
that accusation.
Things were
no better at the mansion. Gabriela and Franco sat next to each other
alone at the dining table, not looking at each other. She finally
broke the awkward silence.
“I don't
understand. A few days ago everything was perfect and now –”
“Now
Julia hates me and David will use any pretext to separate me from the
whole family, including you.”
“No. No,
my love, don't say that. Nobody will separate us.”
“You know
what my father told me? That he might give me one of his businesses,
but I won't be part of the corporation. He wants me to go far away
from him, Julia, and David so they can be the happy family from
before.”
“No,
that's not possible.”
“Yes.
It's possible. I'm sure David asked him.”
“No. I
don't believe David –”
“You
know, Gaby, that's what I think.” He was almost shouting. “And
you're supposed to be on my side and not doubt me.”
“My love,
calm down. Don't say that. I only want things to go back to
normal.”
“And if
that's not possible what will you do? What are you going to do,
Gaby? Stay at my side or go back to them? To your family?”
Gabriela
had the deer-in-the-headlights look she should have had on her
wedding day.
Eladio was
drinking cognac at his desk. He didn't normally consume anything
like it so early in the day. He stopped himself from throwing the
snifter at the bookshelf and put it on the desk just as Caridad
entered the office.
“Can I
come in?”
“What do
you want?” he shouted.
“What's
wrong? What is wrong, Eladio?”
“You!”
He pointed directly at her. “You. You told Julia that Franco is
our son, didn't you?”
“No. I
swear I didn't. Never would I have hurt Julia or caused a problem.”
“No. I
don't believe you. You threatened me that you would if I didn't
recognize Franco.”
“Think
what you want. Eladio, I told you it wasn't me.”
“Only
four of us knew. You, Gabriela, Franco, and I. Who?”
The nurse
was holding the baby and Nina was gushing over him.
“Now that
I know he's alright I'm taking him to the hospital to see Erick,”
she said. She stopped deliberately at the door. “Ah, Consuelo,
please tell the nurse what room she will stay in.”
“What?”
“If you
don't tell her I will have to.”
“No way.
I told you that I will take care of my son. She has
visited, you've seen that all is well, and that's done.”
Nina made a
dismissive sound.
“Above
all I was doing you a favor by helping you –”
“I've
told you I don't need any help. Just leave me alone.”
“Well,
I'm so sorry, but that's impossible because I don't trust just anyone
touching my grandson.” She went over to the bassinet. “And I
was thinking of taking him with me so Erick can see him.” She
picked it up by the straps but Consuelo took them out of her hands.
“In that
case if you're going there, so will I. Let's go.”
“Well,
then, let's go.”
Nina walked
out with the nurse meekly following her. Clara looked at Consuelo
with sympathy. Consuelo gave a look that said she thought Nina was
insane.
David was
in the office reviewing a project when Caridad approached him. He
did not want to talk to her and tried to leave. She persisted but he
was not willing to talk to the woman he blamed for causing his mother
pain, saying that if she had a shred of dignity she'd go far away
from them.
“If I'm
here it's for my son, nothing else.”
“Yes, but
also for my father. Excuse me, but I don't want to be near you.”
He walked
away, leaving her no opening for any more. When he got to Eladio's
office he saw him downing another snifter of cognac.
“What's
wrong?”
“Nothing.
Had a problem. I want to know how is your mother?”
“How is
my mother? What do you hope I'll tell you?”
“That's
why I'm asking you. How is she taking the news about Franco?”
“I don't
know how she thinks of Franco. It was you who lied to her.”
“I know,
I know that. I know I lied,” Eladio said as he got up. “It's a
past mistake.”
“When you
mentioned that you had another son, Father, never in my life did I
imagine it was Franco. I can't believe that you'd do such a thing to
my mother to bring a child side by side with me and never tell us we
were brothers –”
“Try to
understand, David.”
“Don't
act like it's all alright. I can't be at peace with this because my
mother will never forgive this. Perfect. And Franco is angry
because he never had the place he should have. This is monstrous.”
“I know
what you're saying.”
“Of
course you know.”
“I made a
mistake, yes. But mistakes can be corrected.”
“Maybe,
except it's too late. Mother doesn't want anything to do with you.
She's not going to forgive you. She doesn't want to. And it will
take a lot of work for me to forgive you. Because you can't say that
my mother's suffering isn't your fault.”
“I want
your help. I don't know how to live without your mother?”
“Well,
you're going to have to learn to live without her because she doesn't
want anything to do with you. And because of that I don't want to see
you with another woman or your other son, Franco.”
Eladio
looked surprised, but it didn't look sincere.
“I'm
sorry, but I'm going to defend what is my mother's even if you don't
want to.”
Eladio
hadn't expected this and didn't know how to answer.
Arturo was
in the hospital corridor holding a large envelope. He met with a man
in a dark grey suit.
“Do you
have the information about the witness?”
“Yes.
Here it is.” He handed an envelope to Arturo, who reached into his
inside pocket.
“Thank
you.” He handed him a brown envelope similar to ones used for
factory workers' pay. “Is it complete?”
“I know
it is. If discovered, I won't say anything.”
Both men
smiled and parted company. Arturo went back the way he came and met
with the detective. Really, one would think that a plainclothes
homicide detective would be paid enough to have a more extensive
wardrobe. Arturo handed the detective a report from the doctor that
Erick would have to spend more time in the hospital. He then left.
Julia spoke
to Humberto on the phone to tell him that she had been looking at
apartments for them to move to. She was back at David and Regina's
place while her father was in Eladio's study. He asked enough
questions to determine that she was alone there. She would come for
him in the morning. He asked how she was, told her he loved her and
even blessed her, doing the sign of the cross. Wasn't there once a
television character who used to say “God will get you for that”?
Humberto
ended the call and looked both ways. He then called Arturo to tell
him where Julia was and that this would be his last chance to see her
there.
“Be calm.
If Dad says you don't have to go to jail, trust him,” Daniela told
her brother.
“Somebody
saw me argue with Monserrat on the balcony.”
Daniela
looked uncomfortable.
“It'll be
alright, you'll see.”
“Dani, I
don't want to spend the rest of my life in the hospital but I don't
want to go to prison. It's horrible.”
Nina opened
the door without knocking and walked in with a big grin. Consuelo
entered behind her holding the baby. They walked up to the bed and
Nina pointedly took the baby from Consuelo to hand to Erick. She
gushed over the baby as her son looked at him for the first time.
His reaction was a mixture of awe and insecurity; he clearly had no
experience with infants. Nina saw that and took the baby from him.
Consuelo remained within touching distance of her son just in case.
David
strode into Franco's office, spoiling for a fight.
“I just
talked to your mother,” he said.
“Look,
David, I don't want to talk about her. Don't mention her. I don't
forgive her for such lies.” He looked up at David. “Look, I
know perfectly well that you won't believe anything.” He took
something out of the file space behind him and handed it to David.
“Here is the proof that something's been going on between your
mother and Arturo Montenegro.” David took the note. “That's
what's been going on behind our father's back.”
David read
the note. It had been crumpled and torn, but was still legible. He
was incredulous.
“Your
mother and he have had a relationship for a long time, David.”
Julia
poured herself a glass of water while talking to her office on her
cell. The doorbell rang and she opened the door without looking
through the peephole.
“Arturo?
Regina isn't home.”
“I came
to see you. I know you've left Eladio. I love you and I want us to
have a life together. Let's go.”
“Arturo,
how can you think we can be together? Please go.”
“Julia,
you and I always loved each other. I know I made mistakes in the
past but I told you the truth. I didn't deceive you as Eladio did –”
“Don't
say any more, please. Don't use the evil Eladio did to get close to
me.”
“Just
listen to what I want to tell you. It's from the heart –”
“Really,
I'm not in a place to think about this.” She looked sad, almost
pitying.
“My love,
everything is falling into place for us to get back together. To be
together again is destiny.”
“No. I'm
sorry, Arturo, but it's impossible. Because I love Eladio.”
“David, I
know perfectly well you don't believe me. I know you don't want to
believe me but it's the truth. Your mother and Arturo Montenegro are
involved. If you want ask Gabriela, your cousin. She would never
lie to you. I saw them in the hospital and he asked me to keep
quiet.”
“Shut
up.” But Franco wouldn't and David's slow burn exploded. “Shut
up!” He slammed him against the back wall of his office.
“Believe
what you want. If my mother lied it's because Julia –”
“Shut
up!”
“David,
he also thought that you were Arturo's son.” He shoved David
against the wall. “Don't you get it?”
The other
employees stopped what they were doing and watched. David punched
Franco. This led to a few more blows. One man in the open office
space picked up the phone.
“You're
sick! You're crazy! You're talking about my father! Never are you
to talk to me like that again!”
“Does
that hurt? David, we're brothers. Sons of the same father. But
that doesn't take away that your mother, Julia, cheated on him with
Arturo. That makes an imbecile of our father.”
Franco
walked out. David leaned against the rear wall and slowly sank to
the floor.
Arturo
entered the apartment.
“Julia,
how can you say you love Eladio when this secret about Franco proves
that he isn't the man you think he is?”
“Yes,
that is very clear. Believe me that I'm very hurt by this
deception.”
“What
deception?”
“I love
my husband profoundly. At last, after all these years I've succeeded
in having the partner and the family I wanted. It was a deception
but that doesn't mean it changes the love I feel for him.”
“In two
months you thought differently?”
“Yes.
And in those months I've felt liberated when I discovered I was
deceived but now, no. Some time ago I really would have run into
your arms. But now things have changed.”
“It's he
only thing that Eladio didn't say to me.”
“Perhaps.
But I can't stop loving him from one day to the other.”
“No. I
don't want to see you suffer. It will take a while to face that the
love we had is over.”
She looked
about to cry as she took his hand.
“Arturo,
I'm truly sorry.”
Neither
could see or hear Regina as she approached the open door.
“Remember
when you first told me you loved me? That you desired me? That you
wanted to be with me forever?”
“Yes.
Yes, I remember.”
“Now that
you've left Eladio and I'm getting divorced, Julia, we finally had a
chance to be together. Think about it.”
He started
to leave, but turned around and kissed her. Regina reacted in
horror.
“Papa!”
They
quickly separated and turned around. Regina looked as though she was
out of breath.
Labels: poder
Comments:
UA, you have a very eloquent style! Adding the touch of one of our greatest society journalists, Dominick Dunne, is perfect and certainly sets the right tone. I had to chuckle on your comment on Erik looking normal,
"insofar as a Neanderthal could pass for normal." Tee hee. Thanks UA.
It was funny when Eladio told Artuto that he and Julia just had a "malentendido." That had to be the understatement of the year!
Arturo, be careful displaying your smug look around police officers, your son is in their hands.
I'm afraid Julia might notice bruising tonight when she takes her shower, what a bodice on that blush colored dress!
For a tiny, tiny split second, the hospital scene with the baby and Montenegro family was sweet. Of course, it was the calm before the storm.
No, Arturo isn't a Mafioso; I don't think he would kill except in self-defense or in defending someone he loves. When he knocked up Susanna he didn't even try to pressure her into an abortion. Nor do I think he's sexist. I think he's seeing his family spinning out of control and he's probably blaming himself. I think he wants the statement to disappear and the confusion for us is that "testigo" could mean either "witness" or "statement."*
If Erick hadn't been in the coma I doubt he'd be trying to "fix" this situation. He went chasing after Erick in Puerto Vallarta to drag him back to face his fate like a man. The brush with death and Arturo feeling guilty about it is what is driving this behavior.
*I once hypothetically asked a friend which unabridged dictionary is the largest and her answer was "English." We have more words for everything so that for a Spanish word to have multiple and related meanings like this example can be confusing.
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Not edited to my usual standard, but didn't want to be too late with this.
I am now completely convinced that Julia needs more sessions than ever with her shrink, Caridad needs one herself, and Humberto will get a very nasty Karmageddon.
I am now completely convinced that Julia needs more sessions than ever with her shrink, Caridad needs one herself, and Humberto will get a very nasty Karmageddon.
Thanks UA,
I waited up because you usually burn the midnite oul with your recaps. I loved your intriguing introduction from DD. Now I will read as much as I can but I will probably fall asleep with iphone in hand into a deep much needed slumber. Not that its boring, oh no, never. But because I can sleep good, knowing I can continue reading part 2 in the morning. Thank you in advance. My observation from the novela tonight is that Eric didnt skip a bit, he is same callous rat. He was ugly to Regina. I was feeling bad for him that Connie didnt give him full chance to wake up before speaking of divorce, now I am glad. He worthless, and that hard head just didn't learn a thing. Sure are lots of cabezudos "hard heads" in this tn. I will try to comment tomorrow, if I have anything worthwhile to say. Be sure I will be very happy w the recap and reading every single comment. Thank you again.
Leticia
I waited up because you usually burn the midnite oul with your recaps. I loved your intriguing introduction from DD. Now I will read as much as I can but I will probably fall asleep with iphone in hand into a deep much needed slumber. Not that its boring, oh no, never. But because I can sleep good, knowing I can continue reading part 2 in the morning. Thank you in advance. My observation from the novela tonight is that Eric didnt skip a bit, he is same callous rat. He was ugly to Regina. I was feeling bad for him that Connie didnt give him full chance to wake up before speaking of divorce, now I am glad. He worthless, and that hard head just didn't learn a thing. Sure are lots of cabezudos "hard heads" in this tn. I will try to comment tomorrow, if I have anything worthwhile to say. Be sure I will be very happy w the recap and reading every single comment. Thank you again.
Leticia
Permalink posted by 
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:52:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:52:00 AM EST
Excellent recap as always, UA. You never disappoint. And you're right about Julia and Caridad needing more sessions with the head shrinker. I think nearly everyone on this show requires therapy, bootcamp-style, 5 times a week!
Woohoo! Julia and Arturo were caught redhanded! Ya se les cayó el teatrito a ese par de santurrones! The curtain's finally closed on the holier-than-thou show that this sanctimonious pair had going on! As Regina screamed in horror at the sight of her Daddy Dearest locking lips with her suegra, I remembered that Greco-Mexican Chorus of moustached musicians that punctuated momentous events in STuD and wished we had them in this show! ♫ Los cacharon! Los cacharon! ♫ (They got busted! They got busted!) Friday's episode is going to be eventful, that's for sure!
The best scene for me was the fight between the brothers. This is the first time since this TN started that I'm impressed with JP Minor's acting. Both boys did a great job on that scene to be fair. It was sad and nerve-racking to see these brothers pitted against each other and locked into a combative embrace. Kudos to JP Minor and Danilo Carrera for a job well done!
Three LOL moments stood out for me in this otherwise tense episode:
1) Eladio waking up alone and in yesterday's suit yet again. Since his Julia left, the poor devil has lost the will to wear pyjamas! ♫ Ain't no jammies when she's gone. It's not comfy when she's away ♫
2) Caridad and David successively entering Eladio's office and both asking him: "Qué tienes?" "What's wrong with you?" What kind of dumb question is that? The dude is drinking in the middle of the day, his wife just left him, lately everybody has been yelling at him and/or slapping him around and/or shaking him by the lapels... Other than this, he's feeling just phenomenal!
3) Arturo extending his hand to Julia and urging her to go with him. Vamonos! Like she has a packed mini-suitcase by the door, ready for when his obnoxious self shows up to whisk her away! Sheesh!
Woohoo! Julia and Arturo were caught redhanded! Ya se les cayó el teatrito a ese par de santurrones! The curtain's finally closed on the holier-than-thou show that this sanctimonious pair had going on! As Regina screamed in horror at the sight of her Daddy Dearest locking lips with her suegra, I remembered that Greco-Mexican Chorus of moustached musicians that punctuated momentous events in STuD and wished we had them in this show! ♫ Los cacharon! Los cacharon! ♫ (They got busted! They got busted!) Friday's episode is going to be eventful, that's for sure!
The best scene for me was the fight between the brothers. This is the first time since this TN started that I'm impressed with JP Minor's acting. Both boys did a great job on that scene to be fair. It was sad and nerve-racking to see these brothers pitted against each other and locked into a combative embrace. Kudos to JP Minor and Danilo Carrera for a job well done!
Three LOL moments stood out for me in this otherwise tense episode:
1) Eladio waking up alone and in yesterday's suit yet again. Since his Julia left, the poor devil has lost the will to wear pyjamas! ♫ Ain't no jammies when she's gone. It's not comfy when she's away ♫
2) Caridad and David successively entering Eladio's office and both asking him: "Qué tienes?" "What's wrong with you?" What kind of dumb question is that? The dude is drinking in the middle of the day, his wife just left him, lately everybody has been yelling at him and/or slapping him around and/or shaking him by the lapels... Other than this, he's feeling just phenomenal!
3) Arturo extending his hand to Julia and urging her to go with him. Vamonos! Like she has a packed mini-suitcase by the door, ready for when his obnoxious self shows up to whisk her away! Sheesh!
Before I skidaddle, I have a couple of queries and I would like to ask our lovely group about their opinion.
Firstly, I noticed that Julia grabbed her stomach and looked nauseated just as David came into the kitchenette area to tell her that her room was ready. The sandwich he had fixed her was untouched. Do you think that:
a) Julia is pregnant;
b) Julia is developing an ulcer;
c) David is a terrible sandwich-fixer: his sarnies are soggy and unappetizing; or
d) Julia likes to feign that she has nausea to throw us off?
Secondly, when Arturo asked Auggie to make that "imbécil" witness "disappear", what definition of the verb "disappear" do you think he had in mind? Was it "disappear" as in:
a) give the witness a few million pesos and ship him off to Bora Bora;
b) have him whacked and make it look like an accident; or
c) enlist the help of a world-renowned magician to make him literally vanish into thin air? Poof!
Thank you JudyB, Susanlynn, Leticia and Sandy for your musical recommendations! I enjoyed listening to your choice songs of love and loss.
Hope everybody has a great day! Hopefully, catch you later :)
Firstly, I noticed that Julia grabbed her stomach and looked nauseated just as David came into the kitchenette area to tell her that her room was ready. The sandwich he had fixed her was untouched. Do you think that:
a) Julia is pregnant;
b) Julia is developing an ulcer;
c) David is a terrible sandwich-fixer: his sarnies are soggy and unappetizing; or
d) Julia likes to feign that she has nausea to throw us off?
Secondly, when Arturo asked Auggie to make that "imbécil" witness "disappear", what definition of the verb "disappear" do you think he had in mind? Was it "disappear" as in:
a) give the witness a few million pesos and ship him off to Bora Bora;
b) have him whacked and make it look like an accident; or
c) enlist the help of a world-renowned magician to make him literally vanish into thin air? Poof!
Thank you JudyB, Susanlynn, Leticia and Sandy for your musical recommendations! I enjoyed listening to your choice songs of love and loss.
Hope everybody has a great day! Hopefully, catch you later :)
I don't think she is pregnant because it's been said several times she couldn't have anymore children after David, but anything's possible.
How would Arturo know about Franco & the dissolution of the Julia/Eladio marriage? Julia & Eladio, THINK!!!
Regina & David, THINK! Arturo told you in the hospital that Eladio was tricking Julia. How would he know?
I still think David will end up telling Eladio about what Arturo said to them in the hospital and Eladio will realize ARTURO is the one who spilled the beans to Jukia about Franco, and then he'll realize Humberto is working with Arturo.
Julia better hurry up and get Hummy out of the house.
How would Arturo know about Franco & the dissolution of the Julia/Eladio marriage? Julia & Eladio, THINK!!!
Regina & David, THINK! Arturo told you in the hospital that Eladio was tricking Julia. How would he know?
I still think David will end up telling Eladio about what Arturo said to them in the hospital and Eladio will realize ARTURO is the one who spilled the beans to Jukia about Franco, and then he'll realize Humberto is working with Arturo.
Julia better hurry up and get Hummy out of the house.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:07:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:07:00 AM EST
Morning, not asleep yet!
Nandicta, since you ask our opinion about what Arturo meant when he asked Auggie to make witness disappear. He is desparate, when Auggie asked him same question. He said "lo que sea" Eric no puede ir a la carcel, sabes lo que le van hacer?"
So I believe any one of the 3 options would be fine by him, even murder, sad to say. I agree with Nina when she once told him "que bajo has caido, Arturo". However, to save her little son she would also resort to any of the 3 options you mentioned. Yo no se, que se yo (what do I know), but Arturo de asesino, como no le queda. (Out of character, even in his desperation to save Eric) With their money, I am certain they can hire panel of best defense attorneys' and they have plenty of bribe money.
Leticia.
Nandicta, since you ask our opinion about what Arturo meant when he asked Auggie to make witness disappear. He is desparate, when Auggie asked him same question. He said "lo que sea" Eric no puede ir a la carcel, sabes lo que le van hacer?"
So I believe any one of the 3 options would be fine by him, even murder, sad to say. I agree with Nina when she once told him "que bajo has caido, Arturo". However, to save her little son she would also resort to any of the 3 options you mentioned. Yo no se, que se yo (what do I know), but Arturo de asesino, como no le queda. (Out of character, even in his desperation to save Eric) With their money, I am certain they can hire panel of best defense attorneys' and they have plenty of bribe money.
Leticia.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:48:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:48:00 AM EST
Btw, the wretched lil old disabled double dealing imp has his days numbered. I think Eladio is this close to figuring that Humberto is pulling an "Assmore" but he is worse cause he using his daughter instead of a lucrative contract.
Leticia
Leticia
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:55:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:55:00 AM EST
I agree that Eladio probably suspects Humberto. Until Gabriela overheard the post-wedding conversation in the study I think Eladio hadn't thought about closed doors or any such thing. Not even Buckingham Palace is so large that one doesn't have to close doors when having a conversation one wants to keep private and the GL mansion isn't that big.
Humberto also has an incredible talent for sneaking up on people, which I think is what's kept him in the story so far. I'm sure this has amused many viewers, but in the real world Eladio (or anyone else) would have reached his breaking point with it long before this.
As far as Julia goes, I'm now of the opinion that she decided to heed this advice rather than bash her head against the wall. I still maintain that Eladio is at least equally responsible at the outset because he knew she didn't love him when they were engaged. He could have backed out rather than take the risk she would have a change of heart. He rolled the dice, lost, and should have let her go. Instead he mentally abused her for 25 years. This can't be fixed in six months. She's now a victim of Stockholm Syndrome in my book. That she wasn't looking David in the eye during at least half of her conversation with him is also telling.
This also applies to David. When I think of Eladio's behavior about the nightstand photo in the opening episode, his 20-year refusal of a DNA test, and the callous indifference he showed to David for the boy's entire life I can't see that magically changing.
I agree that the Cain and Abel fight was the best scene of this episode. Those two actors really hit all the right points. Second to that was Humberto's scene in the study when talking to Julia. Based on his track record I can't see any love in him for Julia but she is not seeing that now. That she is willing to have him live with her at all says he has her completely snowed.
Humberto also has an incredible talent for sneaking up on people, which I think is what's kept him in the story so far. I'm sure this has amused many viewers, but in the real world Eladio (or anyone else) would have reached his breaking point with it long before this.
As far as Julia goes, I'm now of the opinion that she decided to heed this advice rather than bash her head against the wall. I still maintain that Eladio is at least equally responsible at the outset because he knew she didn't love him when they were engaged. He could have backed out rather than take the risk she would have a change of heart. He rolled the dice, lost, and should have let her go. Instead he mentally abused her for 25 years. This can't be fixed in six months. She's now a victim of Stockholm Syndrome in my book. That she wasn't looking David in the eye during at least half of her conversation with him is also telling.
This also applies to David. When I think of Eladio's behavior about the nightstand photo in the opening episode, his 20-year refusal of a DNA test, and the callous indifference he showed to David for the boy's entire life I can't see that magically changing.
I agree that the Cain and Abel fight was the best scene of this episode. Those two actors really hit all the right points. Second to that was Humberto's scene in the study when talking to Julia. Based on his track record I can't see any love in him for Julia but she is not seeing that now. That she is willing to have him live with her at all says he has her completely snowed.
Urban: Thank you very much for the recap!
Anon: Old Goat Humberto will get whacked. The question is how he'll get whacked ?
Leticia: Erick will put his foot down in NOT wanting a divorce. I could easily see him pulling an OJ Simpson & getting away with it!
Daniela continuing her downward spiral & Regina's stupidity in telling Connie not to divorce Erick!
Something tells me Caridad will blurt out Marinita's location because she's really stupid!
Anon: Old Goat Humberto will get whacked. The question is how he'll get whacked ?
Leticia: Erick will put his foot down in NOT wanting a divorce. I could easily see him pulling an OJ Simpson & getting away with it!
Daniela continuing her downward spiral & Regina's stupidity in telling Connie not to divorce Erick!
Something tells me Caridad will blurt out Marinita's location because she's really stupid!
Marvelous Urban...
"One thing I can say is that today's communication capabilities and changes in morality means that all bets are off" and Franco was truly losing his cool, although it wasn't easy to tell whether he was losing his mind" were among my many favorites.
Again, thank you for your excellent conversation translations which add so much!
“I don't know what to feel. Until I have him near me I don't know what I'll feel for him.” Your own son! How cold Erick, how very cold.
My sincere apologies to Consuelo. I was rather shocked she announced she would divorce Erick the second his eyelids fluttered but now I see she was totally right. Nina has enabled her son shamelessly and Dani's support is cringeworthy.
I loved Consuelo standing up to Nina. Her gaul in bringing in a nurse and expecting to waltz off with the baby was incredible. But, not surprising.
I believe I fault Julia far less than many on the patio. Eladio raped her and she lived under his fear and tyranny for many years. When the seemingly kind and loving Arturo reappeared, I could hardly blame her for thinking she could escape and find true love again. When she changed her mind and decided to give Eladio a chance, that was her prerogative. And even now, after her world has been rocked yet again by infidelity, she did not seek Arturo out. The blame for what is happening now is Arturo's. I fault Julia for several things, including her indifference to Franco (but honestly, can you blame her? He is terrible)...
Julia pouring her heart out to her father was perhaps the most difficult scene to watch. Calling him Judas doesn't quite seem to convey what he has done.
I agree that the two brothers' physical and verbal altercation was very well done, especially by David. I hope he is going to give his mother a chance to explain (?)
If Eladio finds out about the letter (which I'm sure Franco will do), let's see how he reacts. I don't hold out much hope. I still want Julia to go off on her own.
Nandicta, my vote is for "David is a terrible sandwich-fixer: his sarnies are soggy and unappetizing". Very clever!
UA, thank you, thank you.
Diana
"One thing I can say is that today's communication capabilities and changes in morality means that all bets are off" and Franco was truly losing his cool, although it wasn't easy to tell whether he was losing his mind" were among my many favorites.
Again, thank you for your excellent conversation translations which add so much!
“I don't know what to feel. Until I have him near me I don't know what I'll feel for him.” Your own son! How cold Erick, how very cold.
My sincere apologies to Consuelo. I was rather shocked she announced she would divorce Erick the second his eyelids fluttered but now I see she was totally right. Nina has enabled her son shamelessly and Dani's support is cringeworthy.
I loved Consuelo standing up to Nina. Her gaul in bringing in a nurse and expecting to waltz off with the baby was incredible. But, not surprising.
I believe I fault Julia far less than many on the patio. Eladio raped her and she lived under his fear and tyranny for many years. When the seemingly kind and loving Arturo reappeared, I could hardly blame her for thinking she could escape and find true love again. When she changed her mind and decided to give Eladio a chance, that was her prerogative. And even now, after her world has been rocked yet again by infidelity, she did not seek Arturo out. The blame for what is happening now is Arturo's. I fault Julia for several things, including her indifference to Franco (but honestly, can you blame her? He is terrible)...
Julia pouring her heart out to her father was perhaps the most difficult scene to watch. Calling him Judas doesn't quite seem to convey what he has done.
I agree that the two brothers' physical and verbal altercation was very well done, especially by David. I hope he is going to give his mother a chance to explain (?)
If Eladio finds out about the letter (which I'm sure Franco will do), let's see how he reacts. I don't hold out much hope. I still want Julia to go off on her own.
Nandicta, my vote is for "David is a terrible sandwich-fixer: his sarnies are soggy and unappetizing". Very clever!
UA, thank you, thank you.
Diana
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 8:37:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 8:37:00 AM EST
I don't think David is a bad cook; he's lived on his own before this so he knows his way around the kitchen. But Julia could easily be developing an ulcer after a lifetime of abuse, a roller coaster of revisionism, and a shocking revelation like this one.
She did say one true thing and that was to David, that she is in no position to be with anyone now. She needs her own space. It will take her a while to get herself together and she will need at least three appointments a week with the shrink. She also needs a better shrink than the one she had and to put Humberto back into Shady Pines.
As I see it, there are many ways Humberto could be sent to his own little cubicle in hell:
-- The stairs, per the near miss in a previous episode (Franco in front of Gaby)
-- Cutting his oxygen, per two past threatening moves (Franco without witnesses and Eladio before an unsuspecting room full of people)
-- Combustion if someone gives him tobacco (Eladio early on at Shady Pines)
-- Alcohol (but maybe only in excess)
-- Heart attack, per compounded near miss (first Eladio, then Franco). Could also happen if Julia really loses her temper at him.
I'd love for it to be the last possibility where he tries to fake it and it really happens. That would be a great scene for this actor and a great Karmageddon for the character. However it would also be devastating to Julia who should not feel any guilt about it. Humberto is completely responsible for his actions. Bed, made, lie.
She did say one true thing and that was to David, that she is in no position to be with anyone now. She needs her own space. It will take her a while to get herself together and she will need at least three appointments a week with the shrink. She also needs a better shrink than the one she had and to put Humberto back into Shady Pines.
As I see it, there are many ways Humberto could be sent to his own little cubicle in hell:
-- The stairs, per the near miss in a previous episode (Franco in front of Gaby)
-- Cutting his oxygen, per two past threatening moves (Franco without witnesses and Eladio before an unsuspecting room full of people)
-- Combustion if someone gives him tobacco (Eladio early on at Shady Pines)
-- Alcohol (but maybe only in excess)
-- Heart attack, per compounded near miss (first Eladio, then Franco). Could also happen if Julia really loses her temper at him.
I'd love for it to be the last possibility where he tries to fake it and it really happens. That would be a great scene for this actor and a great Karmageddon for the character. However it would also be devastating to Julia who should not feel any guilt about it. Humberto is completely responsible for his actions. Bed, made, lie.
Thank you so much, Urban, for this rechly detailed recap!
Diana ITA about this: "Eladio raped her and she lived under his fear and tyranny for many years. When the seemingly kind and loving Arturo reappeared, I could hardly blame her for thinking she could escape and find true love again. When she changed her mind and decided to give Eladio a chance, that was her prerogative. And even now, after her world has been rocked yet again by infidelity, she did not seek Arturo out. The blame for what is happening now is Arturo's."
Despite the beach kissing, by the time they had both left Cancun, Julia made it clear to Art that they could NOT turn back time, and she told him about her epiphany about her own role in her failed marriage. Then she told him that she was giving her marriage a real chance for the first time. HE chose not to listen. HE chose to hang on to this fantasy for the last 6 months. HE stalked her to D&R's apartment. HE stole a kiss from her. This situation was not on her.
I don't even think the letter is that damning. It was written months ago, and all it does is confirm that Art regrets the past, and that he'll always be there to support her and love her. Both David and Eladio already know this-- Art has said so directly to them. (It was David whom Art told in the hospital way back when that he loves Julia.) It says nothing about snogging, shagging, divorcing, or running away together. I don't see what it proves.
Steve- Regina did not tell Connie not to divorce Erick. She, like most of the Patio, said she shouldn't have mentioned it right after he woke from the coma. His continued a**hole behavior, only makes me more supportive of Connie doing that. Give these folks an inch, they take ten miles.
Diana ITA about this: "Eladio raped her and she lived under his fear and tyranny for many years. When the seemingly kind and loving Arturo reappeared, I could hardly blame her for thinking she could escape and find true love again. When she changed her mind and decided to give Eladio a chance, that was her prerogative. And even now, after her world has been rocked yet again by infidelity, she did not seek Arturo out. The blame for what is happening now is Arturo's."
Despite the beach kissing, by the time they had both left Cancun, Julia made it clear to Art that they could NOT turn back time, and she told him about her epiphany about her own role in her failed marriage. Then she told him that she was giving her marriage a real chance for the first time. HE chose not to listen. HE chose to hang on to this fantasy for the last 6 months. HE stalked her to D&R's apartment. HE stole a kiss from her. This situation was not on her.
I don't even think the letter is that damning. It was written months ago, and all it does is confirm that Art regrets the past, and that he'll always be there to support her and love her. Both David and Eladio already know this-- Art has said so directly to them. (It was David whom Art told in the hospital way back when that he loves Julia.) It says nothing about snogging, shagging, divorcing, or running away together. I don't see what it proves.
Steve- Regina did not tell Connie not to divorce Erick. She, like most of the Patio, said she shouldn't have mentioned it right after he woke from the coma. His continued a**hole behavior, only makes me more supportive of Connie doing that. Give these folks an inch, they take ten miles.
UA you never miss. Thank you
"My love, don't lose your trust in me"
I'm more convinced than ever both Art and Eladio are fools to fight over Julia. Perhaps it was Humberto's abuse that molded her into the puppet she is today but whatever the reason she does not posses the capability to think nor act freely. Unlike someone like Dani, Julia's fluttering is not caprice. The wind blows so she goes and believes it was her intent. I'm surprised those around her believe she is even self aware, and me, she's just painful to watch.
"My love, don't lose your trust in me"
I'm more convinced than ever both Art and Eladio are fools to fight over Julia. Perhaps it was Humberto's abuse that molded her into the puppet she is today but whatever the reason she does not posses the capability to think nor act freely. Unlike someone like Dani, Julia's fluttering is not caprice. The wind blows so she goes and believes it was her intent. I'm surprised those around her believe she is even self aware, and me, she's just painful to watch.
Thank you, Urban, for this splendidly detailed retelling of last night's downward spiral. It was so kind of you to offer to trade days with me this week – I really appreciate it.
I won't have time to comment later, but I thought I'd raise the question of motivation here, especially where some of our "baddies" are concerned:
Humberto: Cold, dispassionate GREED is what motivates him, though he enjoys making mischief and having a chance to get back at Eladio and Franco for the real and perceived insults and injuries he has suffered at their hands. He is a formidable opponent because he rarely acts impulsively.
Franco: It is RESENTMENT that fuels him. He may talk about fortune and power, but mostly he wants to get back at everyone who has DONE HIM WRONG. He wants them all to suffer. He is a terrible strategist because he is so impulsive.
Arturo (yes, I consider him one of the villains!): He is driven by a profound and ruthless sense of ENTITLEMENT and a need to WIN out over his rival.
Gotta run. See you next time!
I won't have time to comment later, but I thought I'd raise the question of motivation here, especially where some of our "baddies" are concerned:
Humberto: Cold, dispassionate GREED is what motivates him, though he enjoys making mischief and having a chance to get back at Eladio and Franco for the real and perceived insults and injuries he has suffered at their hands. He is a formidable opponent because he rarely acts impulsively.
Franco: It is RESENTMENT that fuels him. He may talk about fortune and power, but mostly he wants to get back at everyone who has DONE HIM WRONG. He wants them all to suffer. He is a terrible strategist because he is so impulsive.
Arturo (yes, I consider him one of the villains!): He is driven by a profound and ruthless sense of ENTITLEMENT and a need to WIN out over his rival.
Gotta run. See you next time!
The note does not prove anything. It bears no date although we know it was before the time jump but after Eladio destroyed all the notes and the love letters from before. Franco had fished that note out of the wastebasket in Julia's room. Very forward-thinking and Machiavellian of him. Does he really feel anything for her? Because he should have been thinking about what would happen after Eladio or David saw this note. That was even before he knew that Eladio was his sperm donor.
In all fairness, Julia is also guilty of mixed signals with both Eladio and Arturo. I don't think this is deliberate on her part most of the time because she -- like all the others -- has very poor boundaries. Now that she has a career that can make her some serious money she seems to have a little more confidence in herself. That is, if Humberto doesn't tear it down when they're alone in an apartment.
Since he has a male nurse in attendance at the GL mansion it needs to be said that he can't live alone. He probably can't be left alone for much time at once either. This could be the key to someone offing him.
The timing of everything seems like a conspiracy against her happiness. For the vast majority of her adult life her only source of happiness was David and most of that was in the shadow of Eladio's tyranny. Now that David is an adult she needs to find herself, whatever that means.
I think she is avoiding Franco because she doesn't want to unleash any unfair anger on him. He had no say in what happened when he was brought to the mansion. He is also not responsible for Eladio's favoritism. He is responsible for his adult actions. There are three more things that will rock this family and those are:
-- When Julia finds out that Franco and Gaby knew of his paternity for the last six months
-- The return of Marintia with Franco's Mini-Me (if it's a boy) and the fact that Caridad enabled her
-- When Eladio finds out how Julia learned the basic truth about Franco. That's when he will get truly homicidal.
Based on the phone conversation between Marintia and Caridad I think that baby will be premature, as David was, so some of this will be hitting the fan before episode 90.
In all fairness, Julia is also guilty of mixed signals with both Eladio and Arturo. I don't think this is deliberate on her part most of the time because she -- like all the others -- has very poor boundaries. Now that she has a career that can make her some serious money she seems to have a little more confidence in herself. That is, if Humberto doesn't tear it down when they're alone in an apartment.
Since he has a male nurse in attendance at the GL mansion it needs to be said that he can't live alone. He probably can't be left alone for much time at once either. This could be the key to someone offing him.
The timing of everything seems like a conspiracy against her happiness. For the vast majority of her adult life her only source of happiness was David and most of that was in the shadow of Eladio's tyranny. Now that David is an adult she needs to find herself, whatever that means.
I think she is avoiding Franco because she doesn't want to unleash any unfair anger on him. He had no say in what happened when he was brought to the mansion. He is also not responsible for Eladio's favoritism. He is responsible for his adult actions. There are three more things that will rock this family and those are:
-- When Julia finds out that Franco and Gaby knew of his paternity for the last six months
-- The return of Marintia with Franco's Mini-Me (if it's a boy) and the fact that Caridad enabled her
-- When Eladio finds out how Julia learned the basic truth about Franco. That's when he will get truly homicidal.
Based on the phone conversation between Marintia and Caridad I think that baby will be premature, as David was, so some of this will be hitting the fan before episode 90.
Thank You bunches Urban. From yesterday, if I may:
"She needs a security building with an uncorruptable staff of doormen who can't be bribed or flirted into....."
"She needs a security building with an uncorruptable staff of doormen who can't be bribed or flirted into....."
UA, you have a very eloquent style! Adding the touch of one of our greatest society journalists, Dominick Dunne, is perfect and certainly sets the right tone. I had to chuckle on your comment on Erik looking normal,
"insofar as a Neanderthal could pass for normal." Tee hee. Thanks UA.
It was funny when Eladio told Artuto that he and Julia just had a "malentendido." That had to be the understatement of the year!
Arturo, be careful displaying your smug look around police officers, your son is in their hands.
I'm afraid Julia might notice bruising tonight when she takes her shower, what a bodice on that blush colored dress!
For a tiny, tiny split second, the hospital scene with the baby and Montenegro family was sweet. Of course, it was the calm before the storm.
Bzzzzzzzt. "Yes"
"Ms. Consuelo we have Nina and Daniela Montenegro at the front gate, should we let them in?"
" Oh tell them I'm polishing my toenails and don't need any help. Maybe tomorrow."
"Yes Ma'am."
"Sorry Miguel, my phone broke up for a minute, what were you saying?"
"Ms. Consuelo we have Nina and Daniela Montenegro at the front gate, should we let them in?"
" Oh tell them I'm polishing my toenails and don't need any help. Maybe tomorrow."
"Yes Ma'am."
"Sorry Miguel, my phone broke up for a minute, what were you saying?"
NovelaMaven, you're welcome.
I completely agree about Humberto. He's a greedy sod who enjoys manipulating others and laughing about it afterward. He seems to be in the catbird seat to do it now because he can play the Aged and Infirm card on top of the Parenthood and Poverty cards. I don't think he has any real feelings for anyone no matter what he says to Julia. He's a true narcissist.
I half-agree about Franco. I think he does want power because he learned its importance and "inherited" the addiction to it from Eladio. I even think he's entitled to be resentful about what has happened to him that he had no control over. He isn't entitled to resent David, who had no role in any of this. His feelings for Julia are questionable because of what he did with Arturo's note. Did he forget that she will get hurt in that fallout or doesn't he care? Still not sure about that.
Totally disagree about Arturo because last night it looked like he had just about reached resignation. He's acting too impulsively because he's too concerned with making up lost time before it all disappears from view. He also didn't think about how devastated Julia would be from this latest thing. He's backing off but leaving the door open, exactly as she had done before. Pity that Regina arrived two minutes too soon and is reacting like a teenager to this.
I completely agree about Humberto. He's a greedy sod who enjoys manipulating others and laughing about it afterward. He seems to be in the catbird seat to do it now because he can play the Aged and Infirm card on top of the Parenthood and Poverty cards. I don't think he has any real feelings for anyone no matter what he says to Julia. He's a true narcissist.
I half-agree about Franco. I think he does want power because he learned its importance and "inherited" the addiction to it from Eladio. I even think he's entitled to be resentful about what has happened to him that he had no control over. He isn't entitled to resent David, who had no role in any of this. His feelings for Julia are questionable because of what he did with Arturo's note. Did he forget that she will get hurt in that fallout or doesn't he care? Still not sure about that.
Totally disagree about Arturo because last night it looked like he had just about reached resignation. He's acting too impulsively because he's too concerned with making up lost time before it all disappears from view. He also didn't think about how devastated Julia would be from this latest thing. He's backing off but leaving the door open, exactly as she had done before. Pity that Regina arrived two minutes too soon and is reacting like a teenager to this.
NINA: Diana, that was right on the money. Nina is making good on her threat to make Consuelo's life a living hell and she thought of a way to do it outside the mansion. The nurse was meant to be her spy and her fault-finder. Notice that she took the baby from Consuelo to hand him to Erick, which was not her place to do. It was a power play against Consuelo, who recognized it as such. This is only the beginning. I hope Arturo remembers what Nina had the nerve to say to her in his study.
DANIELA: She's the same as ever. Nina's Mini-Me.
ERICK: As Regina noted, he hasn't changed a bit. Brain damage would have been an improvement.
CARIDAD: Still a fool regarding Franco. It's really painful to watch her now.
On to other matters:
Regina and David have to get over this. If there is any chance at all that Julia and Arturo will end up together they need to accept it. They can't change a past that happened before they were born and nobody can dictate another person's feelings. The latter goes both ways.
Why is Arturo still beating himself up over distracting his worthless son with the phone call? He saw the security video of the guy cutting the car's brakes. Nothing could have prevented that "accident." I don't think he was faking that because Augustin would be the most likely person to see through it.
Who is the man Arturo paid (I've been wondering whether we've seen him before)? Who is the witness? Of anyone who would have been anywhere near the building that night I think Aldo is the most likely suspect. He also had motive for framing Erick for the crime.
DANIELA: She's the same as ever. Nina's Mini-Me.
ERICK: As Regina noted, he hasn't changed a bit. Brain damage would have been an improvement.
CARIDAD: Still a fool regarding Franco. It's really painful to watch her now.
On to other matters:
Regina and David have to get over this. If there is any chance at all that Julia and Arturo will end up together they need to accept it. They can't change a past that happened before they were born and nobody can dictate another person's feelings. The latter goes both ways.
Why is Arturo still beating himself up over distracting his worthless son with the phone call? He saw the security video of the guy cutting the car's brakes. Nothing could have prevented that "accident." I don't think he was faking that because Augustin would be the most likely person to see through it.
Who is the man Arturo paid (I've been wondering whether we've seen him before)? Who is the witness? Of anyone who would have been anywhere near the building that night I think Aldo is the most likely suspect. He also had motive for framing Erick for the crime.
Wonderful recap as always!
No time to really comment but looks like everyone is going to be on the outs with everyone else. Geesh
No time to really comment but looks like everyone is going to be on the outs with everyone else. Geesh
Carvivlie- So true. Everyone is about to be unhappy with everyone else. Even the poor baby won't be at peace. Clara and Justino will be the only happy twosome.
Regina has been running around telling Nina that her jealousy of Julia is misplaced, it's all in Nina's head, there's nothing to worry about, David's parents are more in love than ever, etc.
Now she sees Julia & her dad in a lip lock. She's in shock & realizes Nina WAS right to give the stink eye to Arturo & Julia.
Likewise, David has a love note from Arturo to Julia, and realizing what Eladio told him earlier (that he never had Julia's heart) was true.
Both David & Regina will be wondering if Arturo's REAL objection to their relationship is because of Daniela or because he has designs on Julia.
David may also wonder if Arturo is the one who told Julia about Franco. If so, he could join forces with Eladio because Arturo purposely hurt his mother so he could have her for himself.
Now she sees Julia & her dad in a lip lock. She's in shock & realizes Nina WAS right to give the stink eye to Arturo & Julia.
Likewise, David has a love note from Arturo to Julia, and realizing what Eladio told him earlier (that he never had Julia's heart) was true.
Both David & Regina will be wondering if Arturo's REAL objection to their relationship is because of Daniela or because he has designs on Julia.
David may also wonder if Arturo is the one who told Julia about Franco. If so, he could join forces with Eladio because Arturo purposely hurt his mother so he could have her for himself.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 11:32:00 AM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 11:32:00 AM EST
One thing I can say is that today's communication capabilities and changes in morality means that all bets are off.
What a great introduction...and summation, if you will...to today's and all future antics. All bets are off. We can't be sure where this is going.
Diana, you and I are soul-mates but I actually understand Eric's reaction. When your baby first arrives, he is a "stranger". It's in caring for him, feeding him, cleaning him up, rocking him, soothing him. talking to him, looking into his eyes that you "learn" your baby and learn to love him. Love takes time.At the beginning, most women and goodness knows a lot of dads feel baffled and overwhelmed. It's not automatic although the impulse to nurture is (at least for women, oxytocin and all that.
What a great introduction...and summation, if you will...to today's and all future antics. All bets are off. We can't be sure where this is going.
Diana, you and I are soul-mates but I actually understand Eric's reaction. When your baby first arrives, he is a "stranger". It's in caring for him, feeding him, cleaning him up, rocking him, soothing him. talking to him, looking into his eyes that you "learn" your baby and learn to love him. Love takes time.At the beginning, most women and goodness knows a lot of dads feel baffled and overwhelmed. It's not automatic although the impulse to nurture is (at least for women, oxytocin and all that.
Thanks UA, stellar recap filled with detail and the right blend of incredulous comment about these folks.
I hadn't watched for a couple days, but jumped in last night, and reminded myself why this TN is driving me nuts.
The audacity of Nina knows no bounds...and also probably with that nurse in tow gave us an idea of what her thoughts on how you handle raising a child are all about. She probably went to the Violet Crawley, Dowager of Grantham school of child rearing. (For those who watched Downtown).
Say it again, Consuele needs to leave town. Like yesterday. Maybe she can have Julia go with her.
Nice move Artie--Julia standing in the door basically said she didn't want you in...but of course, you know better. There is a general disrespect he has for women I keep picking up. He may love his daughter, or Julia, kind to Consuelo (sometimes), but he still thinks HE, not them, knows better how to live their lives. As long as they go along with him, he's fine, otherwise, he is going to keep pushing until he gets HIS way. Rather disgusting to watch.
Maybe it's the actor, but honestly Erick comes off as a ten year old on a good day, the way he talks and his facial expressions. Or maybe that's what they want us to see--one big overgrown baby. Maybe he needs a good dose of reality and adulthood...but he'll never get it from those two parents. And now Arturo is not above breaking the law and lying to get his son off.
Augustin is starting to have concerns about this friend/boss of his. I would love nothing better than for him to walk away from Arturo and tell him he's not the man he once knew and he can't be a part of his scheming. Or it may come to HIM blowing the whistle on the continued shady dealings that are happening. So I hope.
So basically everyone will hate or not trust everyone else for a good number of episodes for awhile it seems. Oh boy.
Daisynjay
I hadn't watched for a couple days, but jumped in last night, and reminded myself why this TN is driving me nuts.
The audacity of Nina knows no bounds...and also probably with that nurse in tow gave us an idea of what her thoughts on how you handle raising a child are all about. She probably went to the Violet Crawley, Dowager of Grantham school of child rearing. (For those who watched Downtown).
Say it again, Consuele needs to leave town. Like yesterday. Maybe she can have Julia go with her.
Nice move Artie--Julia standing in the door basically said she didn't want you in...but of course, you know better. There is a general disrespect he has for women I keep picking up. He may love his daughter, or Julia, kind to Consuelo (sometimes), but he still thinks HE, not them, knows better how to live their lives. As long as they go along with him, he's fine, otherwise, he is going to keep pushing until he gets HIS way. Rather disgusting to watch.
Maybe it's the actor, but honestly Erick comes off as a ten year old on a good day, the way he talks and his facial expressions. Or maybe that's what they want us to see--one big overgrown baby. Maybe he needs a good dose of reality and adulthood...but he'll never get it from those two parents. And now Arturo is not above breaking the law and lying to get his son off.
Augustin is starting to have concerns about this friend/boss of his. I would love nothing better than for him to walk away from Arturo and tell him he's not the man he once knew and he can't be a part of his scheming. Or it may come to HIM blowing the whistle on the continued shady dealings that are happening. So I hope.
So basically everyone will hate or not trust everyone else for a good number of episodes for awhile it seems. Oh boy.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 12:19:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 12:19:00 PM EST
thank you , UA, for another of your excellent accounts of all the crazy.
I am not done reading the comments yet, but I could not wait to mention my delight in reading Nandicta's observation of Hotladio having "!ost the will to wear pajamas." Teehee
I must say that ever since Julia has suddenly and without explanation fallen in luuvre with Lad after twenty years of Nada, she might find herself in the family way with all their nonstop bunnyhopping. After all, she got pregnant with David after the noche de boda.Lad seems to be verra potent! I am reading about a couple who is separated for twenty years and then resumes their marriage. She was pregnant when they parted and wonders if she could get pregnant again now they are together again and still crazy in !love. These two stories are slightly parallel.
I am not done reading the comments yet, but I could not wait to mention my delight in reading Nandicta's observation of Hotladio having "!ost the will to wear pajamas." Teehee
I must say that ever since Julia has suddenly and without explanation fallen in luuvre with Lad after twenty years of Nada, she might find herself in the family way with all their nonstop bunnyhopping. After all, she got pregnant with David after the noche de boda.Lad seems to be verra potent! I am reading about a couple who is separated for twenty years and then resumes their marriage. She was pregnant when they parted and wonders if she could get pregnant again now they are together again and still crazy in !love. These two stories are slightly parallel.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 12:36:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 12:36:00 PM EST
Got interrupted...also wanted to say that I loved the moody stage-set picture at the beginning. UA, you come up with some truly unusual illustrations for these musings on the doings of the troubled upper class in Mexico. Always a treat.
Diana...beautifully stated. You and Judyb could offer a lot of good advice to these people. I wonder if Julia could have pulled herself together if she had a good friend around her age or older to talk to, but her only confidente is her young niece. (Every time I see Gaby , I think about someone here pointing out her resemblance to the daughter on The Munsters.)
I think that Julia might benefit from some alone time at the beach...a ponytail, flip-flops, walks along the surf, a few oina coladas. Just sayin'
I think that Julia might benefit from some alone time at the beach...a ponytail, flip-flops, walks along the surf, a few oina coladas. Just sayin'
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:08:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:08:00 PM EST
Susanlynn: "Julia has suddenly and without explanation fallen in luuvre with Lad..." Wasn't it the work with the therapists, and seeing Eladio making a real effort that did this?
In any case, Julia doesn't seem to be confused at all right now. Hurt and reeling, yes. But, she knows her heart is broken. She knows she loves Eladio, but doesn't want to see him right now. She knows she needs to get out and get her own place (and already started looking). She knows she needs some time to herself. She knows she needs to heal. And she knows she is NOT in love with Arturo nor wants to run away with him. Sounds normal to me. Just what does she need to get clarity on or see a shrink about? It's everyone else who seem to have the wrong end of the stick, trying to foist their own desires, plans, plots, expectations, emotions, or assumptions on her.
In any case, Julia doesn't seem to be confused at all right now. Hurt and reeling, yes. But, she knows her heart is broken. She knows she loves Eladio, but doesn't want to see him right now. She knows she needs to get out and get her own place (and already started looking). She knows she needs some time to herself. She knows she needs to heal. And she knows she is NOT in love with Arturo nor wants to run away with him. Sounds normal to me. Just what does she need to get clarity on or see a shrink about? It's everyone else who seem to have the wrong end of the stick, trying to foist their own desires, plans, plots, expectations, emotions, or assumptions on her.
Novelamaven...hmmm..so maybe a new title then..Greed y Resentment y Entitlement. The English language is indeed rich and robust with possibilities for accurate expression. Maybe Eladio could be ...Obsession. Are his yearning, burning feelings for the fair Julia fueled by love or obsession ?
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:34:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:34:00 PM EST
Reading Judy;s comment, forgot to also add to you UA, that wonderful reference to Summer and Smoke at the start. I saw the 1976 revival production which was actually renamed The Eccentricities of a Nightingale and Blythe Danner was sublime in the role of Alma. Always remember that one fondly and always felt an underrated play in general. Maybe no one likes to see the would-be lovers not make it at the end...which for Arturo and Julia looks to be their outcome...or is it?
Susanlynn, I like your alone time idea for Julia. Maybe a few others in this show could loosen up a bit. Undo the ties, shake off the suits, put their feet in the grass as they say...Might do some good to be a simple human again.
Daisynjay
Susanlynn, I like your alone time idea for Julia. Maybe a few others in this show could loosen up a bit. Undo the ties, shake off the suits, put their feet in the grass as they say...Might do some good to be a simple human again.
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:35:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:35:00 PM EST
I was thinking about this last night, this show has more characters that I can see not making it to the end than any other show in my (limited) recent memory. Maybe LQVMR but a lot of the death in that just seemed gratuitous and unnecessary.
Vivi....I forgot that Julia and Eladio saw a therapist. I still cannot wrap my head around someone being married to and living with someone for twenty years with no bunnyhopping and then...realizing that he or she is actually in love with the spouse. Is that really possible? Today, I was thinking about that number ..20...when you have kids, 20 years is about how long a couple is very busy raising their children. Once the children are sent off to college or jobs, a couple can go back to dating and get closer again..unless they are caring for aging and ill parents ...Hum, looking at you.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:49:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:49:00 PM EST
Daisy, I'm ashamed to admit I haven't seen DA so I'm requesting a description.
Nina and Delegated Motherhood: Early on Nina's defenders tried saying that she raised the children herself but a deleted scene with Daniela and Arturo proved that she had nannies. I'd never fault anyone over that if they have the money and the space. Since money and status matter to Nina because she never had them before it's a foregone conclusion that she would have employed nannies (Since her three children were born so close together she would have been crazy not to). She obviously used this as a way to escape the drudgery of motherhood while getting the Kodak moments. This did not stop her from influencing two of her three children into being exactly like herself. This didn't work with Regina.
I'm going to take my earlier comment about the nurse a step further into the possibility that Nina hired her to set Consuelo up for child neglect or abuse accusations. The ultimate goal is to take the baby away from her because she is still determined to get a divorce. This is motivated by either or both of the following:
-- She wants control of any shares that are in the baby's name
-- She wants to make Consuelo's life a living hell
She has always hated Consuelo but has never explained this (not that she would necessarily be honest about it). I have my own theories about it, but we haven't heard any explanation from any of the characters. She may also be in the "misery loves company" mindset where her misery is losing the status of being married to Arturo while Consuelo's misery would be to have to stay married to Erick. Losing Arturo is a blow to Nina's needy ego while remaining chained to Erick is deadly to Consuelo's spirit. Even if he didn't continue to mistreat her Nina and her Mini-Me would.
As I've said repeatedly, narcissists have no boundaries. Everything is about themselves and narcissistic parents see their children as extensions of themselves. Any difference in personality or dissent of opinion is seen as an insult.
The nurse was Nina's first weapon in the war she intends to wage on Consuelo.
Julia's Only Child: Eladio told his shrink that the doctors said Julia was unable to have more children after David. No details were provided on this and doctors can make mistakes. It would be ironic and awful for her to be pregnant now.
Julia's Missing Friends: Women who are abused like Julia are isolated from the world in a way that doesn't allow them to have friends. Abusive fathers and husbands don't like the possibility that peers or older friends will influence them.
Arturo's Informant and Payoff: Their conversation was very brief and deliberately vague on the writers' part. However, this should mean with about 35-40 episodes left that they won't take long to tell us what this is about. I still maintain that Erick is lying about what happened based on the closing scene of episode 42. There was no follow-up to Erick's confession to Nina where she told Arturo all the details, but we can assume she did because she needed Arturo to believe he is innocent. I doubt that the police gave them any forensic details. The witness could easily be someone Eladio or Callao paid off or threatened. It could also be Aldo, who had no good opinion of Erick. These two scenarios are not mutually exclusive.
Erick, the Adolescent: As inappropriate as we initially thought this actor was because of his age, his look of overgrown mmanchild is completely correct for his character. Erick is a spoiled mama's boy who got everything he wanted in his youth because Nina wanted to control him into doing her bidding later in life. This may be one of the biggest reasons she hates Consuelo, who is a threat to that control. The irony of Nina attempting to prevent the divorce is that she is more likely to get her wish if it happens.
Nina and Delegated Motherhood: Early on Nina's defenders tried saying that she raised the children herself but a deleted scene with Daniela and Arturo proved that she had nannies. I'd never fault anyone over that if they have the money and the space. Since money and status matter to Nina because she never had them before it's a foregone conclusion that she would have employed nannies (Since her three children were born so close together she would have been crazy not to). She obviously used this as a way to escape the drudgery of motherhood while getting the Kodak moments. This did not stop her from influencing two of her three children into being exactly like herself. This didn't work with Regina.
I'm going to take my earlier comment about the nurse a step further into the possibility that Nina hired her to set Consuelo up for child neglect or abuse accusations. The ultimate goal is to take the baby away from her because she is still determined to get a divorce. This is motivated by either or both of the following:
-- She wants control of any shares that are in the baby's name
-- She wants to make Consuelo's life a living hell
She has always hated Consuelo but has never explained this (not that she would necessarily be honest about it). I have my own theories about it, but we haven't heard any explanation from any of the characters. She may also be in the "misery loves company" mindset where her misery is losing the status of being married to Arturo while Consuelo's misery would be to have to stay married to Erick. Losing Arturo is a blow to Nina's needy ego while remaining chained to Erick is deadly to Consuelo's spirit. Even if he didn't continue to mistreat her Nina and her Mini-Me would.
As I've said repeatedly, narcissists have no boundaries. Everything is about themselves and narcissistic parents see their children as extensions of themselves. Any difference in personality or dissent of opinion is seen as an insult.
The nurse was Nina's first weapon in the war she intends to wage on Consuelo.
Julia's Only Child: Eladio told his shrink that the doctors said Julia was unable to have more children after David. No details were provided on this and doctors can make mistakes. It would be ironic and awful for her to be pregnant now.
Julia's Missing Friends: Women who are abused like Julia are isolated from the world in a way that doesn't allow them to have friends. Abusive fathers and husbands don't like the possibility that peers or older friends will influence them.
Arturo's Informant and Payoff: Their conversation was very brief and deliberately vague on the writers' part. However, this should mean with about 35-40 episodes left that they won't take long to tell us what this is about. I still maintain that Erick is lying about what happened based on the closing scene of episode 42. There was no follow-up to Erick's confession to Nina where she told Arturo all the details, but we can assume she did because she needed Arturo to believe he is innocent. I doubt that the police gave them any forensic details. The witness could easily be someone Eladio or Callao paid off or threatened. It could also be Aldo, who had no good opinion of Erick. These two scenarios are not mutually exclusive.
Erick, the Adolescent: As inappropriate as we initially thought this actor was because of his age, his look of overgrown mmanchild is completely correct for his character. Erick is a spoiled mama's boy who got everything he wanted in his youth because Nina wanted to control him into doing her bidding later in life. This may be one of the biggest reasons she hates Consuelo, who is a threat to that control. The irony of Nina attempting to prevent the divorce is that she is more likely to get her wish if it happens.
Since Valentine's Day is coming up, I wanted to share something with my patiopeeps. I was reading an article in the paper about a local restaurant having a Stupid Cupid Party promising to help the brokenhearted take the pain away with free tissues and a shredding station for pictures of an ex. HA! Perhaps some of our characters should make a reservation.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:57:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 1:57:00 PM EST
I wonder if Erick, once shown the video of the guy cutting his brakes, will recognize him? And if so, what will he tell the police about how he knows him? He can't say he hired him to beat up Franco. Also, I wonder if he will lie and say it's Miguel in order to separate him and Connie.
Hmmm...women often think that they cannot get pregnant...and then miraculously do. One of my best friends could not get pregnant, so she and her husband adopted a baby boy a few weeks after my first daughter was born. Two years later, she was very surprised to get pregnant. Her husband was not thrilled...he wanted a boat. Prologue. ..she divorced the ****** after her son and daughter graduated from high school.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:05:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:05:00 PM EST
UA...yes, about abusive people wanting to separate their spouses from friends and family...yes, I know this to be a fact.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:09:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:09:00 PM EST
Daisy, I was a theatre major and Tennessee Williams was one of my favorite playwrights. It's been a long time since I've seen either version of this play but I think I saw Blythe Danner on a PBS broadcast of the revision, I think with Frank Langella as the co-star. It points to the timing issue that has affected Julia and Arturo through their whole story going back to their original noviazgo when they were the same age or younger than Regina and David are now.
Arturo was a youthful, oversexed playboy and Julia was the Princess in the Tower he always dreamed of. He got caught through carelessness or failed contraception and took the responsibility of marrying Susanna. Julia married jealous, control-freak Eladio out of spite and suffered the consequences so that she was not free when Arturo became a widower. All these years and more mistakes later they aren't the same people anymore, like John and Alma in Williams' play.
That man knew as much as any shrink about toxic families.
Arturo was a youthful, oversexed playboy and Julia was the Princess in the Tower he always dreamed of. He got caught through carelessness or failed contraception and took the responsibility of marrying Susanna. Julia married jealous, control-freak Eladio out of spite and suffered the consequences so that she was not free when Arturo became a widower. All these years and more mistakes later they aren't the same people anymore, like John and Alma in Williams' play.
That man knew as much as any shrink about toxic families.
UA...ah...Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward in "The Long ,Hot Summer"..sigh. I have always loved Paul's comment regarding his fidelity "Why go out for hamburger when you have steak at home?" Now there was a real onetruelove story.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:31:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:31:00 PM EST
UA..I think that your analysis of the situation and those three characters and what played out is spot on. Today's decisions are tomorrow's reality.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:34:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:34:00 PM EST
Yep, UA, that was the televised version of the revival that had been on Broadway right before. Same cast. I got to see the actual play, but loved the TV production as well. It was part of the Hollywood Television Theater productions that were showed on PBS in the 70's. Some fabulous plays with that series I wish were more available to still see.
As for the Downton reference, The Dowager, Countess of Grantham, played by Maggie Smith, basically believed that children should be in the care of their nannies and that an hour a day with her (or their mother) was more than sufficient to carry out her motherly expectations and duties. and of course, they would be presented with nanny all clean and rested. She was rather aghast that anyone thought they should do more.
Susanlynn- what a hoot for that local restaurant. Bet they'll be packed!!
Daisynjay
As for the Downton reference, The Dowager, Countess of Grantham, played by Maggie Smith, basically believed that children should be in the care of their nannies and that an hour a day with her (or their mother) was more than sufficient to carry out her motherly expectations and duties. and of course, they would be presented with nanny all clean and rested. She was rather aghast that anyone thought they should do more.
Susanlynn- what a hoot for that local restaurant. Bet they'll be packed!!
Daisynjay
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:38:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:38:00 PM EST
Judyb!!!..thank you..After reading your message, I went right to YouTube and listened to one of my favorite songs by Orleans " Love Takes Time." Thanks for the reminder of one of my favorite songs by one of my favorite groups!
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:42:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 2:42:00 PM EST
Carvivlie, just saw your 2:03 post. I'm sure Erick would recognize this guy but since he won't admit hiring him to beat up Franco he would likely try to frame Miguel. He isn't clever enough to pull this off; he's been caught before. The one difference now is that Mommy and Little Sis would be in cahoots with him over this. This scenario is possible because the police just told Miguel not to leave the city.
Steve, about your comment on Eric. He already killed once, even if it was accident. He is so pushy and forceful, I wouldnt doubt for a minute if there is OJ situation.
UA, everytime I go back to reread, I see something I missed first time. You have such an intelligent sharp dry humor I find so entertaining. Caridad, is in bad place. Everyone manhandling her, she trying to help Franco, that coniver Franco will be fine alone. If she insists he will frame her for something bad. I think she is glutton for punishment. I think shes dumb, and really don't like to see her treated so badly by everyone. Only nice sympathatic person is Clara, but she stays w Connie. Even she would tell her to open her eyes about Franco. Ay ya yay.
Leticia
UA, everytime I go back to reread, I see something I missed first time. You have such an intelligent sharp dry humor I find so entertaining. Caridad, is in bad place. Everyone manhandling her, she trying to help Franco, that coniver Franco will be fine alone. If she insists he will frame her for something bad. I think she is glutton for punishment. I think shes dumb, and really don't like to see her treated so badly by everyone. Only nice sympathatic person is Clara, but she stays w Connie. Even she would tell her to open her eyes about Franco. Ay ya yay.
Leticia
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 3:00:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 3:00:00 PM EST
So complete and concise. Urban, you're fantastic.
Urban---You are going to cause injury from too much hardy laughter. Erick a normal Neanderthal. Good grief! I never thought that I would read that but it is sooo true.
Franco loosing his cool or his mind. Good one but I think that he will be loosing more then either of those two options before this is all over. He is starting to spin out of control.
The two brothers were very good last night. When their little spat was over and David sank to the floor, he looked completely devastated.
The story as well as the character analysis is beyond exceptional. Patio peep college professors. This novela is bringing the deepest discussion that I can remember from any in the past.
The EVIL WITCH was at her EVIL BEST last night as she tried to totally take control of Consuelo's baby. I brought a nurse to make sure that you are properly caring for Erick's son. WHAT!!! Consuelo should have thrown the nurse and the disgusting pompous witch out on their buts. Add that little incident along with the power play in Erick's hospital room where the disgusting Nina tried to shove Consuelo onto the trash heap of oblivion and completely take over control was absolutely nauseating. Consuelo is going to have to get a lot tougher if she is to have a chance against the EVIL POWER OF DARKNESS, A.K.A. Nina the Witch.
The kiss at the open door last night. Not sure is Regina saw the kiss beginning or not but Arturo grabbled Julia and drew his lips to hers. It was not mutual.
must see tv
the gringo
Urban---You are going to cause injury from too much hardy laughter. Erick a normal Neanderthal. Good grief! I never thought that I would read that but it is sooo true.
Franco loosing his cool or his mind. Good one but I think that he will be loosing more then either of those two options before this is all over. He is starting to spin out of control.
The two brothers were very good last night. When their little spat was over and David sank to the floor, he looked completely devastated.
The story as well as the character analysis is beyond exceptional. Patio peep college professors. This novela is bringing the deepest discussion that I can remember from any in the past.
The EVIL WITCH was at her EVIL BEST last night as she tried to totally take control of Consuelo's baby. I brought a nurse to make sure that you are properly caring for Erick's son. WHAT!!! Consuelo should have thrown the nurse and the disgusting pompous witch out on their buts. Add that little incident along with the power play in Erick's hospital room where the disgusting Nina tried to shove Consuelo onto the trash heap of oblivion and completely take over control was absolutely nauseating. Consuelo is going to have to get a lot tougher if she is to have a chance against the EVIL POWER OF DARKNESS, A.K.A. Nina the Witch.
The kiss at the open door last night. Not sure is Regina saw the kiss beginning or not but Arturo grabbled Julia and drew his lips to hers. It was not mutual.
must see tv
the gringo
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 3:02:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 3:02:00 PM EST
Urban, superb recap. I'm glad you included a lot of dialogue.
So David tells Eladio he doesn't want to see his pop with Caridad or with Franco. Hombre, how is the man supposed to avoid his own son? I was as surprised as Eladio about that one coming from David.
Hurtful for Regina to see her dad about to kiss Julia, who's standing there like she's mesmerized or in a trance, but I'm glad Art got busted.
I'm a sucker for a man with a baby. For a moment Erick and his big tyke looked so cute together. If Erick would keep his mouth shut, he'd be fine.
PyP won't be on tonight (Friday) -- that's what was announced on Univision DC last night -- for one-hour coverage of the Pope's visit in Mexico.
So David tells Eladio he doesn't want to see his pop with Caridad or with Franco. Hombre, how is the man supposed to avoid his own son? I was as surprised as Eladio about that one coming from David.
Hurtful for Regina to see her dad about to kiss Julia, who's standing there like she's mesmerized or in a trance, but I'm glad Art got busted.
I'm a sucker for a man with a baby. For a moment Erick and his big tyke looked so cute together. If Erick would keep his mouth shut, he'd be fine.
PyP won't be on tonight (Friday) -- that's what was announced on Univision DC last night -- for one-hour coverage of the Pope's visit in Mexico.
Niece, but MUST watch TV.
Are you certain about PyP not shown tonght???
Excuse me while I throw a tantrum. Not kidding??
Faltaba mas!!!!!
Are you certain about PyP not shown tonght???
Excuse me while I throw a tantrum. Not kidding??
Faltaba mas!!!!!
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:47:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 4:47:00 PM EST
UA--Late to the party and what a raucous party it was. Analysis, recriminations, justifications, excuses, delusions, illusions--it was all there, described so vividly and discussed so wisely by everyone. Thank you.
Hummy is not going to be very happy in a 2br, 1bath, walk-up, w/laundry room in the basement for very long.
Gringo--I noticed that one-way kiss, of course, but what telenovela in its right mind would have had Regina miss the lip-lock position in order to grow more lies in the great field already sown with lies.
The whole business of a witness against Erick is a mystery to me right now. Aldo has been disqualified--the necklace disappearing act was not enough proof. We on the patio have no memory of anyone else, unless there was one last drunk left in the Ratt's apartment.
Leticia--Erick is impulsive and explosive, but he does not suffer from the extreme anger management issues the real O.J. did. Though Erick has been abusive with words and has pushed both Connie and the Ratt around violently, I don't think Erick is a murderer. O.J. (if he did kill Nicole in anger) killed Ron in cold blood.
Since Erick looks to Nina for a lead on all his actions, I doubt she will urge him to kill Connie just to prevent a divorce and keep Connie tied to him. Her tactic would be more to discredit Connie as a mother, take the child and turn her back on Connie. We know Connie is growing a pair and isn't going to let that happen. She has Clara on her side, Miguel on her side in the background and Regina beginning to see the folly of forcing Connie and Erick to stay together.
Hummy is not going to be very happy in a 2br, 1bath, walk-up, w/laundry room in the basement for very long.
Gringo--I noticed that one-way kiss, of course, but what telenovela in its right mind would have had Regina miss the lip-lock position in order to grow more lies in the great field already sown with lies.
The whole business of a witness against Erick is a mystery to me right now. Aldo has been disqualified--the necklace disappearing act was not enough proof. We on the patio have no memory of anyone else, unless there was one last drunk left in the Ratt's apartment.
Leticia--Erick is impulsive and explosive, but he does not suffer from the extreme anger management issues the real O.J. did. Though Erick has been abusive with words and has pushed both Connie and the Ratt around violently, I don't think Erick is a murderer. O.J. (if he did kill Nicole in anger) killed Ron in cold blood.
Since Erick looks to Nina for a lead on all his actions, I doubt she will urge him to kill Connie just to prevent a divorce and keep Connie tied to him. Her tactic would be more to discredit Connie as a mother, take the child and turn her back on Connie. We know Connie is growing a pair and isn't going to let that happen. She has Clara on her side, Miguel on her side in the background and Regina beginning to see the folly of forcing Connie and Erick to stay together.
There was a couple on the sidewalk near the car when the body fell. Also there was the guy in the pjs who complained about the noise.
Then there were Eladio and Callao, although we didn't see where they were parked.
I strongly doubt that Nina would try to push Erick to murder someone. He's not clever enough to do it without leaving evidence behind. Dani is smarter than he is but she couldn't pull this off. Nina probably could but I don't think she'd want to take the risk. Anita, I think I'd add to your comment that she would discredit Consuelo in the worst way possible using the gutter press.
Then there were Eladio and Callao, although we didn't see where they were parked.
I strongly doubt that Nina would try to push Erick to murder someone. He's not clever enough to do it without leaving evidence behind. Dani is smarter than he is but she couldn't pull this off. Nina probably could but I don't think she'd want to take the risk. Anita, I think I'd add to your comment that she would discredit Consuelo in the worst way possible using the gutter press.
UA--I remember the couple on the sidewalk near the car, but they were busy with each other and not looking up to see what was going on on the balcony before the body came plummeting down and hit the roof of the car. I would discount them. I doubt Eladio and Callao would step forward as witnesses at this late date, nor would want to be identified. That leaves pajama man. I'll go with him....for now.
UA,
Thanks for another incredibly detailed recap chock full of dialogue. You put so much effort into your presentations and it is much appreciated.
For me, the thing that cracked me up yesterday was David's squeaky shoes. Did anyone else notice that?
I thought that Miguel was particularly creepy last night as he was asking the policeman about the effect that going to jail might have on Coni's divorce efforts and in my opinion I think that Arturo may well been insinuating that he wants Agustín to bump off the witness.
Carlos
Thanks for another incredibly detailed recap chock full of dialogue. You put so much effort into your presentations and it is much appreciated.
For me, the thing that cracked me up yesterday was David's squeaky shoes. Did anyone else notice that?
I thought that Miguel was particularly creepy last night as he was asking the policeman about the effect that going to jail might have on Coni's divorce efforts and in my opinion I think that Arturo may well been insinuating that he wants Agustín to bump off the witness.
Carlos
The big question is whether Purple Lips pulls a Peralta to control Connie & the baby!
Vivi: The poor kid is going to need Dr. Phil to help him out when he gets older!
Personally, the Montenegro's have become Mexico's version of the DiMera's from Days!
Vivi: The poor kid is going to need Dr. Phil to help him out when he gets older!
Personally, the Montenegro's have become Mexico's version of the DiMera's from Days!
UA, splendid recap full of great detail thank you so much for the passion you infuse into your recaps! I stayed up to read it, but was much to tired to gather my thoughts and comment.
May I just say how much I love this TN? There are so many twists and it's pretty much anyone's game, as there have been a few fumbles by both sides. That said, I firmly believe that Julia is indeed in love with Eladio, and her telling Arturo was possibly my most favorite moment of last night's ep. She was firm and did not waver in her statement to Arturo and I still maintain that she and Eladio are going to find their way back to each other.
My other favorite moment was David calling Caridad out on her shameless behavior. "Oh I'm just here for my son" Bull! David wasn't buying it and neither am I. He was completely right in telling her that if she had any real remorse she would take her trifling behind out from his father's company. She doesn't need to be working at GL to be near Franco and why does she need to be underfoot? What mother hovers the way she does? She is still manipulating things by hiding and colluding with Marintia regarding this baby and she has no business dealing behind Franco's back. He's a grown ass man and she may not like how he handles things, but it's his life and she needs to butt her nose out of it.
DC/JM really brought it in their scene together. I don't know what Franco has to gain by painting his Madrina as some loose hussy. If he thinks this is going to show loyalty to his father he's wrong. Eladio isn't going to pat him on the back and say "atta boy". Julia is going to be outraged that Franco went through her private things and she should be. Gaby should be outrage as well.
I agree w/you Diana on Julia, while she has made some poor choices with Arturo, she did back away realizing she needed to give Eladio a chance and that is her perogative; only Arturo didn't accept it and still won't. I've found him to be quite entitled from the get go and it's very off putting how he dismisses and treats the women in his family as if the dont know their own feelings or have a a right to them. As someone said; he knows best and they need to just fall in line with the Lord and master. I loathe him. I'm actually hoping by the end of the TN he's imprisoned or dead. Never to bother Julia or Eladio again.
Poor Regina stumbling upon that kiss. She will misinterpret it all, assuming Julia is part of this. It's going to take some serious explaining to convince her and David (after that letter) that she has no interest in her father.
Nina may finally get the support from Regina she has wanted. Take Daddy to the cleaners!
I still find Miguel creepy. I hope Consuelo takes her baby and just leaves the whole Montenegro clan, including creepy boy.
May I just say how much I love this TN? There are so many twists and it's pretty much anyone's game, as there have been a few fumbles by both sides. That said, I firmly believe that Julia is indeed in love with Eladio, and her telling Arturo was possibly my most favorite moment of last night's ep. She was firm and did not waver in her statement to Arturo and I still maintain that she and Eladio are going to find their way back to each other.
My other favorite moment was David calling Caridad out on her shameless behavior. "Oh I'm just here for my son" Bull! David wasn't buying it and neither am I. He was completely right in telling her that if she had any real remorse she would take her trifling behind out from his father's company. She doesn't need to be working at GL to be near Franco and why does she need to be underfoot? What mother hovers the way she does? She is still manipulating things by hiding and colluding with Marintia regarding this baby and she has no business dealing behind Franco's back. He's a grown ass man and she may not like how he handles things, but it's his life and she needs to butt her nose out of it.
DC/JM really brought it in their scene together. I don't know what Franco has to gain by painting his Madrina as some loose hussy. If he thinks this is going to show loyalty to his father he's wrong. Eladio isn't going to pat him on the back and say "atta boy". Julia is going to be outraged that Franco went through her private things and she should be. Gaby should be outrage as well.
I agree w/you Diana on Julia, while she has made some poor choices with Arturo, she did back away realizing she needed to give Eladio a chance and that is her perogative; only Arturo didn't accept it and still won't. I've found him to be quite entitled from the get go and it's very off putting how he dismisses and treats the women in his family as if the dont know their own feelings or have a a right to them. As someone said; he knows best and they need to just fall in line with the Lord and master. I loathe him. I'm actually hoping by the end of the TN he's imprisoned or dead. Never to bother Julia or Eladio again.
Poor Regina stumbling upon that kiss. She will misinterpret it all, assuming Julia is part of this. It's going to take some serious explaining to convince her and David (after that letter) that she has no interest in her father.
Nina may finally get the support from Regina she has wanted. Take Daddy to the cleaners!
I still find Miguel creepy. I hope Consuelo takes her baby and just leaves the whole Montenegro clan, including creepy boy.
UA, Thank you for this recap. It has all kinds of explosives about to go off.
This will not end well for so many people.
Nina is full of herself, and that other stuff too.
Arturo has no shame, well most of the people
On here don't. But really man there is no ink
On the devorce paper to dry yet. Hes got to
Many irons in the fire, trying to keep his son out of prison, trying to keep his wife from taking half of his life's work, trying to keep his son's wife from divorcing his son,trying to get Julia away from her husband, the man is a mess. And now hes going to have to deal
With his daughter, who caught him tongue ticklen Julia. And now looks like hes doing something illegal to keep baby boy out of prison. It gets messier tonite.
Franco is slimy nasty. How can gaby love this man knowing he lies as easily as he breaths. Is she that hard up.
Dani, I don't care.
Caridade, shes........stuck, I don't know.
David and regina, what a dilemma.
I'd like to see Eladio and Julia back together again but your guess is as good as mine how that's going to happen if it even happens at all.
Ok then. Onward and downward. Im thinking
Down.
This will not end well for so many people.
Nina is full of herself, and that other stuff too.
Arturo has no shame, well most of the people
On here don't. But really man there is no ink
On the devorce paper to dry yet. Hes got to
Many irons in the fire, trying to keep his son out of prison, trying to keep his wife from taking half of his life's work, trying to keep his son's wife from divorcing his son,trying to get Julia away from her husband, the man is a mess. And now hes going to have to deal
With his daughter, who caught him tongue ticklen Julia. And now looks like hes doing something illegal to keep baby boy out of prison. It gets messier tonite.
Franco is slimy nasty. How can gaby love this man knowing he lies as easily as he breaths. Is she that hard up.
Dani, I don't care.
Caridade, shes........stuck, I don't know.
David and regina, what a dilemma.
I'd like to see Eladio and Julia back together again but your guess is as good as mine how that's going to happen if it even happens at all.
Ok then. Onward and downward. Im thinking
Down.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 6:32:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 6:32:00 PM EST
Thank you Urban. Great job. And thank you NovelaMaven and AuntyAnn for your recaps from Tuesday and Wednesday.
Things are getting so good in PyP land. Great cliffhanger with Regina catching Arturo kissing Julia. A shame that we will have to wait until Monday to see what happens next.
Hope that Caridad doesn't give away where Marintia is. Would hate it if Franco were to get away with knocking her up. Gaby's eyes need to be open regarding him and finding out about that might be the only way that will happen.
Erick is still just as hateful as he was before going into that coma. Too bad the thug didn't finish the job at the hospital.
Things are getting so good in PyP land. Great cliffhanger with Regina catching Arturo kissing Julia. A shame that we will have to wait until Monday to see what happens next.
Hope that Caridad doesn't give away where Marintia is. Would hate it if Franco were to get away with knocking her up. Gaby's eyes need to be open regarding him and finding out about that might be the only way that will happen.
Erick is still just as hateful as he was before going into that coma. Too bad the thug didn't finish the job at the hospital.
I did not know pyp wasn't on tonite. That will
Be good for me I can watch "grim" without
Going back and forth during commercials.
Mauricio, ITA Erick is dumb as ever. Being in
A coma taught him nothing. But momie is so
Thrilled her little brat is back, so its more of the same crap. Stand firm connie girl. Arturo
Is no help, hes neck deep in his own dodo.
Deception is a nasty thing to keep going. But
This crew is good at it. So the explosives will
Happen monday.
Have a warm or cool weekend yall. Depending On where you live.
Be good for me I can watch "grim" without
Going back and forth during commercials.
Mauricio, ITA Erick is dumb as ever. Being in
A coma taught him nothing. But momie is so
Thrilled her little brat is back, so its more of the same crap. Stand firm connie girl. Arturo
Is no help, hes neck deep in his own dodo.
Deception is a nasty thing to keep going. But
This crew is good at it. So the explosives will
Happen monday.
Have a warm or cool weekend yall. Depending On where you live.
Permalink posted by : Friday, February 12, 2016 at 8:25:00 PM EST
: Friday, February 12, 2016 at 8:25:00 PM EST
Steve: "Anita: Arturo wants Agustin to knock off Aldo ?"
Anita answers: We are not privy to the identity of the said "witness" the police were referring to. I wouldn't use the term "knock off" quite so easily. You seem to be too quick to desire that characters kill each other off for the sake of bloodshed. I don't think this is that type of telenovela.
I heard Arturo say he does not want this witness to testify. All *we* know is that Arturo wants him desperately to "disappear." That term is what made us and Agustin uneasy--because that word has been associated with the political and criminal element for a very long time.
UA heard Arturo say he wants the "statement" to disappear. There's desperation in his voice either way. It's easier to make a statement disappear than a person if you are someone like Arturo. But thinking about it, a statement can disappear, but the police can just go back to the witness and ask for another statement.
Maybe that will be clarified by someone who can tell us whether Arturo was referring to a written statement or a person.
Regardless, I don't think Arturo is talking about knocking anybody off. I just don't think it would be in him. This isn't a mafia family we're talking about--and even they are careful about who they decide to knock off.
OK, I'm done.
Anita answers: We are not privy to the identity of the said "witness" the police were referring to. I wouldn't use the term "knock off" quite so easily. You seem to be too quick to desire that characters kill each other off for the sake of bloodshed. I don't think this is that type of telenovela.
I heard Arturo say he does not want this witness to testify. All *we* know is that Arturo wants him desperately to "disappear." That term is what made us and Agustin uneasy--because that word has been associated with the political and criminal element for a very long time.
UA heard Arturo say he wants the "statement" to disappear. There's desperation in his voice either way. It's easier to make a statement disappear than a person if you are someone like Arturo. But thinking about it, a statement can disappear, but the police can just go back to the witness and ask for another statement.
Maybe that will be clarified by someone who can tell us whether Arturo was referring to a written statement or a person.
Regardless, I don't think Arturo is talking about knocking anybody off. I just don't think it would be in him. This isn't a mafia family we're talking about--and even they are careful about who they decide to knock off.
OK, I'm done.
No, Arturo isn't a Mafioso; I don't think he would kill except in self-defense or in defending someone he loves. When he knocked up Susanna he didn't even try to pressure her into an abortion. Nor do I think he's sexist. I think he's seeing his family spinning out of control and he's probably blaming himself. I think he wants the statement to disappear and the confusion for us is that "testigo" could mean either "witness" or "statement."*
If Erick hadn't been in the coma I doubt he'd be trying to "fix" this situation. He went chasing after Erick in Puerto Vallarta to drag him back to face his fate like a man. The brush with death and Arturo feeling guilty about it is what is driving this behavior.
*I once hypothetically asked a friend which unabridged dictionary is the largest and her answer was "English." We have more words for everything so that for a Spanish word to have multiple and related meanings like this example can be confusing.
-- Anita and UA: The word "testigo" refers to a "witness" in a variety of contexts. In Spain it can, occasionally, be used to mean "sign", "indication" or "testimony" but in a figurative sense. For instance, "Te regalo este anillo como testigo de mi amor" ("I'm offering you this ring as a sign of my love") or, this example encountered in Wordreference: "La leche en el suelo es testigo de que el gato ha pasado por aquí.) ("Milk spilled on the floor is a sign that the cat has been here."
Moreover, the most commonly used word for " legal testimony" in both Peninsular and American Spanish is either "testimonio" or "declaración". Never encountered the word "testigo" to mean "testimony" unless it is a metaphor like the examples mentioned above.
Furthermore, Arturo was definitely talking about a person because he called the person "imbécil" (an idiot, a moron) and as far as I know this adjective applies to people not to things. Still, I went back and looked up the exact conversation between Agustín and Arturo, here it goes:
AUGGIE: "(...) el testigo que lo vio puede ser suficiente para meterlo a la cárcel" ==> "the witness who saw him (Erick) can be enough to put him in jail"
ARTURO: "No me importa. Yo voy a hacer lo que sea necesario para que mi hijo no vaya a la cárcel. Así que, haz lo que sea para que ese imbécil, ese testigo desaparezca! Haz lo que sea!". ==> "I don't care. I will do whatever is necessary to avoid that my son goes to jail. Therefore, do whatever it takes so that that moron, that witness desappears!"
(The conversation continues a scene later)
AUGGIE: "A qué te refieres con 'hacer lo que sea'?" ==> What do you mean by 'do whatever it takes'?"
ARTURO: "Tú me entendiste. Yo no puedo permitir que lo encierren estando así." ==> "You understood me. I can't allow that he (Erick) be imprisoned in his current state."
Hope this clears up the confusion.
Moreover, the most commonly used word for " legal testimony" in both Peninsular and American Spanish is either "testimonio" or "declaración". Never encountered the word "testigo" to mean "testimony" unless it is a metaphor like the examples mentioned above.
Furthermore, Arturo was definitely talking about a person because he called the person "imbécil" (an idiot, a moron) and as far as I know this adjective applies to people not to things. Still, I went back and looked up the exact conversation between Agustín and Arturo, here it goes:
AUGGIE: "(...) el testigo que lo vio puede ser suficiente para meterlo a la cárcel" ==> "the witness who saw him (Erick) can be enough to put him in jail"
ARTURO: "No me importa. Yo voy a hacer lo que sea necesario para que mi hijo no vaya a la cárcel. Así que, haz lo que sea para que ese imbécil, ese testigo desaparezca! Haz lo que sea!". ==> "I don't care. I will do whatever is necessary to avoid that my son goes to jail. Therefore, do whatever it takes so that that moron, that witness desappears!"
(The conversation continues a scene later)
AUGGIE: "A qué te refieres con 'hacer lo que sea'?" ==> What do you mean by 'do whatever it takes'?"
ARTURO: "Tú me entendiste. Yo no puedo permitir que lo encierren estando así." ==> "You understood me. I can't allow that he (Erick) be imprisoned in his current state."
Hope this clears up the confusion.
"In his current state" makes me feel better and now the doctor has put the kibosh on Ape Child being transferred until he is fit.
Re the last shot: Misunderstandings are what most novela action is based on. The rest is based on secrets.
Re the last shot: Misunderstandings are what most novela action is based on. The rest is based on secrets.
Nandicta--Thank you for Continuing Education 101!! I was pretty sure he was referring to a person and not a document, but the recap threw me off a bit.
Thanks Nandicta ,
Yes, Thanks for saying so. I understood him speaking of person and he told Auggie "do whatever.,.," Auggie even asked for clarification because that seemed out of character for Art, because he is not a mafioso. Desperation is driving him to do something he will regret later.
Testigo is definitely a person, not a statement in this scenario.
Leticia
Yes, Thanks for saying so. I understood him speaking of person and he told Auggie "do whatever.,.," Auggie even asked for clarification because that seemed out of character for Art, because he is not a mafioso. Desperation is driving him to do something he will regret later.
Testigo is definitely a person, not a statement in this scenario.
Leticia
Permalink posted by : Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 3:23:00 PM EST
: Saturday, February 13, 2016 at 3:23:00 PM EST
Ot....If you get Starz Edge ...Outlander season one marathon today from 8am to midnight.
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥Happy Valentine's Day, all♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥Happy Valentine's Day, all♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
Permalink posted by : Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 1:05:00 PM EST
: Sunday, February 14, 2016 at 1:05:00 PM EST
Thank you for clarifying things Nandicta, that is how I understood the conversation as well.
I will never say never when it comes to what Arturo would do, this TN has been unpredictable and I think we are seeing sides to Arturo that had been kept hidden. Do I think he's a cold blooded killer? I doubt it very much, but I do not put it past him to make the witness disappear in some way, I think Aug is seeing a side to his friend that shocks even him. I think Arturo can stoop even further before this tn is done. I can't wait for tonight's ep and to see the fallout.
I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and a romantic Valetine's day (if that is your thing)
I will never say never when it comes to what Arturo would do, this TN has been unpredictable and I think we are seeing sides to Arturo that had been kept hidden. Do I think he's a cold blooded killer? I doubt it very much, but I do not put it past him to make the witness disappear in some way, I think Aug is seeing a side to his friend that shocks even him. I think Arturo can stoop even further before this tn is done. I can't wait for tonight's ep and to see the fallout.
I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and a romantic Valetine's day (if that is your thing)
You're welcome and my best belated wishes to all our PyP Patio pals for Valentine's Day. Hope everyone had a Feliz día del amor y la amistad!
Can't wait for tonight's episode!
Can't wait for tonight's episode!
I'm going to be pulling for Purple Lips in taking dumb Arturo to the cleaners for everything he's got!
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